logo
episode-header-image
May 2022
41m 50s

WorkLife with Adam Grant: Breaking Up wi...

TED
About this episode

Perfectionism is on the rise–and not just in job interviews when people claim it’s their greatest weakness. But the desire to be flawless is not always productive—or healthy. As a recovering perfectionist, Adam dives into how he managed to abandon the quest for 10s while holding onto his drive for excellence. For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/WL45

We have a quick favor to ask you! We love making the show, and we're always trying to make it better. So if you have a few minutes, please take our survey at surveynerds.com/worklife

For the full text transcript, visit https://www.ted.com/podcasts/worklife-transcripts


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Up next
Today
How to find a peer group that lifts you up with Bill Gurley
When it comes to seeking wisdom or advice in your career, there’s a lot of focus on mentorship and what more senior players in your field can offer you. But the truth is that your most important and valuable relationships are those with your peers—reciprocal, two-way relationship ... Show More
35m 55s
Aug 18
Forget the corporate ladder — winners take risks with Molly Graham | from TED Talks Daily
Success in your career looks different for everyone — but no matter your industry, you'll need to take risks. Company and community builder Molly Graham took to the TED stage two years ago to share three key skills to learn before jumping off a metaphorical cliff, outlining a pat ... Show More
48m 13s
Aug 11
Can AI make you a better manager? with Hilary Gridley
Managing people is a deeply human line of work—it requires relational skills, judgement, and deep knowledge of the people you work with. But Hilary Gridley believes that when used properly, AI can not only help you become a better manager, but can help your team make more meaning ... Show More
46m 2s
Recommended Episodes
May 2022
Breaking Up with Perfectionism | WorkLife with Adam Grant
Perfectionism is on the rise–and not just in job interviews when people claim it’s their greatest weakness. But the desire to be flawless is not always productive—or healthy. As a recovering perfectionist, organizational psychologist Adam Grant dives into how he managed to abando ... Show More
42m 30s
May 2022
Breaking up with perfectionism | WorkLife with Adam Grant
Perfectionism is on the rise -- and not just in job interviews when people claim it's their greatest weakness. But the desire to be flawless is not always productive or healthy. As a recovering perfectionist, organizational psychologist Adam Grant dives into how he managed to aba ... Show More
42m 26s
Sep 2023
Ep.54 Perfectionism Is Holding You Back: How To Achieve AND Be Highly Productive [SOLO EP]
“You have this false perception that perfectionism is good for your work, but realistically it’s actually harming your work in the long term” 💅🏼 In this week's solo ep, we're talking all about perfectionism - in work, relationships and life in general, with the aim to reframe o ... Show More
22m 8s
Oct 2025
Episode 42 Learning to Manage Perfectionism
<p>Today, we are confronting a trait often disguised as a virtue, a relentless driver that can fuel both great success and profound suffering: perfectionism.</p><p>In a culture that celebrates flawlessness and high achievement, perfectionism is often worn as a badge of honor. "I' ... Show More
13m 18s
May 2025
The Roots of Perfectionism and How We Can Change
Perfectionism can help us succeed, but it can also be a detriment to our mental health and our lives. Understanding it is the first step to better management. In this episode, psychologist Thomas Greenspon shares research about perfectionism, where it comes from, how it can impac ... Show More
29m 56s
Nov 2022
Digging Deeper on Perfectionism
Many high performers go through their working lives struggling with perfectionism and not even realizing it - or not understanding why they have such a need to achieve. In this episode, we continue the conversation around the roots of perfectionism, how to know if it is a problem ... Show More
54m 7s
Dec 2022
Adam Grant on Perfectionism and Procrastination
<p><em>New episodes come out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for free, with 1-week early access for Wondery+ subscribers.</em></p> <p>---</p> <p>According to guest Adam Grant, excellence does not require perfectionism, and rather than obsessing over the outcome of your work, ... Show More
1h 8m
Sep 2025
Escaping Perfectionism
<p>Perfectionism is everyone’s favorite flaw. It’s easy to assume that our push to be perfect is what leads to academic, athletic, and professional success. But how do we distinguish between high standards and unrealistic expectations? This week, we bring you a favorite conversat ... Show More
1h 37m