In our hypercompetitive, winner-takes-all economy, average is a decidedly dirty word. Society rewards the extraordinary and we live in a hall of mirrors reflecting impossible ideals everywhere we look.

No wonder that perfectionism is on the rise. But it’s high time we talked seriously about our favourite flaw because the impossible quest for perfection is slowly killing us.

In The Perfection Trap, Thomas Curran illustrates how perfectionism goes beyond having high standards and creates problematic relationships both with ourselves and others. From education and work to parenting and social media, Curran illustrates the ways in which our society and economy breed perfectionism and presents a compelling argument for why being less perfect will lead to a more fulfilling life.

Grounded in over a decade of research and filled with real stories, this timely book reveals how our quest for perfection impacts our health and mental well-being and promises practical techniques to break free of the perfection trap.