Description:

‘Projected Perfectionism’ explores methods to overcome perfection paralysis experienced by visual creative practitioners. Through a series of research-informed challenges, I completed illustration projects I had previously avoided due to fear of failure, while documenting my process and experience along the way. This documentation is accompanied by a ‘Survival Guide’ to assist emerging designers in overcoming perfectionism-related procrastination.

In early 2021 I was filled with anxiety and struggling to settle on a topic for my final University project, when someone recommended I read psychologist Alice Boyes’ book ‘The Anxiety Toolkit’. It was here that I first learned of the term ‘perfection paralysis’ and my idea for this project was sparked. As Boyes explained, perfection paralysis occurs when perfectionism leads one to believe ‘either there is flawless performance or complete and utter failure, and nothing in between’. This can prevent perfectionists from starting tasks entirely.

I realised this was the exact struggle I was facing, and further research suggested this was a common issue faced by students and new designers. I wanted to use this project as an opportunity to combat my own perfection paralysis and hopefully become better equipped to enter the design industry as a result. However, I also endeavoured to create something useful for my peers with the same struggle.

‘Projected Perfectionism’ aims to be an insightful resource that documents my creative process as I attempted to overcome perfection paralysis and the tools and techniques I used to do so ( both what worked and didn’t ) — facilitating other practitioners to follow suit. Equipped with tips I developed informed by creative practitioners, as well as psychology, emerging designers can have a useful tool to turn to the next time they are faced with the dreaded fear of the blank page. Seeing my own journey can provide others with a sense of relatability and motivation, making it all seem less daunting.

Central to my design approach was the need for the book to feel inviting and accessible. The large, square format lends itself to images of both portrait and landscape orientation, most of which are shown full-size. The images are askew and appear attached by tape to create an intimate scrapbook feel. Process spreads reveal earlier, unrefined stages of projects where relevant. The reflection's layout takes inspiration from logbook entries, making it clear to read and contrasting with the eclectic illustration pages. I created the cover title type myself, inspired by the hand-lettering task I undertook as one of the challenges. Using coptic stitching I have bound the book myself, matching the essence of the project by trying yet another new skill and giving the book an authentic, artistic appearance.

The accompanying pocket book ‘Perfection Paralysis Survival Guide’ compiles everything I learned into something concise and easy to use for fellow emerging creative practitioners. The tips and tools are adaptable suggestions so users can take what they want and leave the rest, with the ‘Field notes’ section at the back providing room for personal notes.