Steve explains how the Chimp sees perfection as a matter of life and death. In order to remain part of the “troop”, the Chimp strives to avoid mistakes and maintain approval. Understanding this helps you see perfectionism as protective rather than flawed.
Perfectionism
Using it Constructively
ABOUT THIS COURSE
This course explores perfectionism through The Chimp Model and explains why perfectionist thoughts and behaviours are natural, normal, and often helpful. Professor Steve Peters shows how perfectionism originates in the Chimp system as a way of keeping us accepted and safe within a group.
Rather than trying to remove perfectionism, Steve explains how to understand what it is doing, why it feels so powerful, and how to manage it so it works for you rather than against you.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
These short, practical sessions help you understand perfectionism clearly and learn how to work with it in everyday life.
Perfectionism is closely linked to belonging and validation. The Chimp looks for approval and fears rejection, which can lead to people pleasing and constant self evaluation.
If unmanaged, perfectionism can create fear of outcomes, paralysis, avoidance, and low self esteem. The Chimp magnifies mistakes and can turn small setbacks into major threats.
The Human aims for high standards but accepts reality. It understands that mistakes are inevitable and uses them as learning points. This realistic outlook brings balance and perspective.
Steve explains how the Chimp and Human can work together. The Chimp can drive ambition and effort, while the Human evaluates outcomes calmly and rationally.
Simple plans help prevent perfectionism from becoming overwhelming. Preparing for mistakes allows you to recover quickly and reduces the emotional impact when things do not go perfectly.
Meet Professor Steve Peters
Professor Steve Peters is a consultant psychiatrist, bestselling author, and creator of The Chimp® Model. For more than 40 years, he has helped people understand their mind and improve their psychological wellbeing, working across NHS mental health services, education, and elite sport — including British Cycling, Liverpool FC, England Football, and Team GB.
He is the author of several bestselling books, including The Chimp Paradox and A Path Through the Jungle, and continues to teach simplified neuroscience to help people manage their emotions, thinking, and behaviour.
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£80 per year
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