If you're dating a perfectionist, be prepared for them to have high standards for everything. This personality type can be demanding, but there are also benefits to being with them if you're willing to be patient and empathetic. Here are a few essential points to keep in mind when dating a perfectionist.
1. Flexibility Isn't Their Strength
Perfectionists thrive on structure and order, and they tend to struggle when plans deviate from their expectations. Last-minute changes are especially difficult for them, and they get easily overwhelmed when things don't go as planned. If you want to avoid causing undue stress, try to keep changes to a minimum and stick to the original plan as much as possible.
2. Positive Reinforcement Is Helpful
Perfectionists are often their own harshest critics, constantly striving for perfection and feeling like they're not good enough. Simple words of encouragement can go a long way in boosting their self-esteem and reminding them of their worth. By offering compliments, you can help perk them up and even receive some positivity in return!
3. Be Gentle When Imperfections Show
It's inevitable for humans to reveal their imperfections, and when they do, they may feel extremely insecure and embarrassed. They might be harsher on themselves than anyone else could be. Therefore, it's crucial to approach them with kindness and understanding when they show their flaws. Try to be patient, tolerant, and loving towards them.
4. They'll Want To Make Plans Ahead Of Time
Perfectionists are fond of planning and organizing every detail, even when it comes to dates. It can be stressful for them if there is no clear plan, and they may prefer to plan the next date themselves or with your help. To avoid causing them anxiety, make sure to have a date planned, preferably even while you're on your current date. This will give them a sense of security and ease their worries.
5. How They're Doing Doesn't Always Match Their Outsides
People who strive for perfection often conceal their true emotions and want to appear okay all the time. They may not want to create any disturbance or attract attention to themselves regarding their emotional state. Therefore, it's essential to pay close attention to them and observe any subtle signs of distress they may display. You may need to be more perceptive to pick up on these signs.
6. They May Spend More Time At Work Than You'd Like
When entering into a relationship with a perfectionist, it's important to understand that they may become a workaholic and view their job as a significant part of their life. It's unlikely that they will change this aspect of their personality, and they usually only reduce their workload when they experience complete burnout, which may never happen.
7. They Have Super High Standards
It's not unusual for perfectionists to be very particular when choosing a partner. They have high standards and are meticulous in their selection process. If you are in a relationship with a perfectionist, take comfort in the fact that they consider you to be the best fit for them. They are quick to identify and criticize flaws in others, but since they have chosen you, it means they see you as flawless.
8. They Likely Have A Lively Social Media Presence
A tendency to perfect their social media presence is a common trait of perfectionists. They strive to portray themselves as ideal individuals, and this can lead to an excessive focus on creating a perfect online image. They feel pressured to capture the perfect moment and post the perfect message, which can be exhausting for them and those around them to witness.
9. They Like To Be In Control
As time passes, their behavior may become overwhelming. They tend to take charge of decision-making and dominate conversations related to your relationship. It's likely that they'll want to be in control most of the time, so if you're also someone who likes to be in charge, conflicts may arise. However, despite their desire for control, they can still share power when needed.
10. You'll Probably Receive Excellent Gifts
One of the advantages of dating a perfectionist is their dedication to finding the ideal gift. They spend weeks contemplating and striving to select the perfect present, which will undoubtedly be considerate and heartfelt. You may feel compelled to reciprocate, but don't worry, there's no need to put in as much effort as they do.