The Hidden Cost of Overachievement And How Perfectionism Affects Women in the Workplace

Success comes at a price, but for many women in the workplace, that price is often far higher than it should be. In male-dominated environments, where women feel the need to prove their worth at every turn, the pursuit of perfection becomes a double-edged sword. While it drives ambition and achievement, it also demands sacrifices that come in the form of burnout, self-doubt, and, at times, a loss of identity.

For women striving to break barriers in industries still shaped by unequal expectations, overachievement often feels like the only option. They work harder, stay longer, and push further, all in an effort to not just meet but exceed the standards set for them. Yet, the hidden cost of this relentless pursuit is rarely discussed. What toll does perfectionism take on women’s mental health, physical well-being, and sense of self-worth?

This article explores how perfectionism in the workplace affects women, particularly in male-dominated industries. By examining the impact of overachievement, sharing real-life examples, and offering actionable solutions, we aim to inspire change and encourage women to redefine success on their own terms.

The Perfectionism Trap

Perfectionism is often seen as a positive trait something to admire and aspire to. But when perfectionism becomes a necessity rather than a choice, it can have damaging consequences. For many women, particularly those working in environments where they are underrepresented, the pressure to be "perfect" stems from a desire to prove their competence and legitimacy.

1. The Double Bind of Expectations

Women in male-dominated workplaces often face a double bind: they must excel to gain respect, but their success is frequently scrutinised more harshly than that of their male peers.

Fact: A study by Harvard Business Review found that women are often held to higher standards of performance than men in the workplace, particularly in leadership roles.

Example: Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta and author of Lean In, has spoken openly about the pressure she felt to prove herself in Silicon Valley, a space dominated by men. “I had to work twice as hard to be seen as half as good,” she once said.

This pressure to overdeliver can lead women to set impossibly high standards for themselves, trapping them in a cycle of overachievement and self-criticism.

2. Perfectionism and Burnout

The relentless pursuit of perfection often leads to burnout a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress.

According to Deloitte’s Women at Work 2022 report, 53% of women feel burned out, with many citing the pressure to always deliver exceptional results as a contributing factor.

For example Tennis star Naomi Osaka has been candid about how the pressure to perform perfectly on the court affected her mental health. In 2021, she withdrew from the French Open, stating, “I felt like I wasn’t good enough, even when I won. The pressure to always be perfect was eating away at me.”

Burnout doesn’t just affect a woman’s career; it impacts her relationships, health, and overall quality of life.

3. The Shadow of Self Doubt

Perfectionism often goes hand in hand with imposter syndrome a persistent feeling of inadequacy despite evident success. Many women, even those at the top of their fields, struggle with self-doubt and fear of being exposed as “frauds.”

Research by KPMG International found that 75% of women executives have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.

Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States, has admitted to struggling with imposter syndrome. “I still have a little bit of that feeling that I’m not supposed to be here,” she said during a 2018 speech.

For women in male-dominated industries, the combination of perfectionism and self-doubt creates a toxic cycle: the harder they work to prove themselves, the more they question their worth.

Breaking the Perfectionism Cycle

While perfectionism and overachievement can feel like the only paths to success, there are ways to break free from this cycle and create a healthier approach to work and life.

1. Redefine Success

Success doesn’t have to mean perfection. Women can benefit from redefining what success looks like for them, focusing on progress rather than flawlessness.

Tip: Set realistic goals and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Progress, not perfection, is what truly drives growth.

2. Prioritise Mental Health

Burnout can be prevented by making mental health a priority. This includes setting boundaries, practising self-care, and seeking support when needed.

Tip: Take regular breaks, both during the workday and in your career. Rest is not a weakness it’s a necessity.

 Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, stepped down in 2023, citing burnout. Her decision was a powerful reminder that prioritising mental health is an act of strength, not failure.

3. Seek Mentorship and Support

Having a mentor or support network can help women navigate the challenges of perfectionism and workplace pressure. Find mentors, colleagues, or support groups who can offer guidance, encouragement, and perspective.

Oprah Winfrey credits her mentor, Maya Angelou, with teaching her to embrace imperfection and focus on self-acceptance.

4. Challenge Workplace Culture

Organisations must take responsibility for creating environments that support women and challenge the unrealistic expectations placed on them.

Fact: Companies with inclusive cultures are 1.8 times more likely to retain female employees, according to McKinsey & Company’s Women in the Workplace report.

Tip: Advocate for policies that promote work-life balance, such as flexible hours and mental health resources.

Embrace Authenticity Over Perfection

Women deserve to succeed in workplaces that value their contributions, not their ability to meet impossible standards. By sharing your story and connecting with others, you can help challenge the culture of perfectionism and inspire positive change.

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A Future Beyond Perfectionism

The hidden cost of overachievement is one that no woman should have to bear. While the pressure to be perfect may feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that success is not about meeting impossible standards it’s about embracing your strengths, learning from your challenges, and prioritising your well-being.

To every woman striving for perfection: you are enough, just as you are. Your worth is not defined by your achievements, but by the courage and authenticity you bring to the table.

And to organisations: it’s time to challenge the culture of perfectionism and create workplaces where women can thrive without sacrificing their mental health. Together, we can build a future where success is not measured by how much women endure but by how much they are empowered to achieve, authentically and unapologetically.

Let’s create a world where women can succeed without the burden of perfectionism. The time for change is now, and it starts with each of us.