Meanwhile, perfectionists view themselves as different—research shows they believe they have higher ability, higher standards, and are capable of greater accomplishments than others. This is often true! And this favorable comparison with others gives them a momentary fix, but the idea of falling behind creates a sense of panic, like facing the prospect of catastrophic failure. When I consider myself better than others—when “better” is at the core of my identity—then failure is unthinkable.
