Perfectionism is costly. In addition to driving us to work longer and harder than necessary, it also prevents us from being happy with our work once it’s done. “It could have been better,” we tell ourselves.

If we never let ourselves feel good about our work, eventually our brains rebel. “Forget this—I’m not working this hard for no credit,” they complain.

Perfection is an illusion. Give yourself credit for a job well done.