When Perfect Isn’t Good Enough – Second Edition

Martin M. Antony received his PhD in clinical psychology from the University at Albany, State University of New York in 1994, and completed his internship at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He is internationally known for his books and research in the areas of anxiety disorders, perfectionism, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and assessment of psychological disorders. He has published 30 books, including a variety of evidence-based self-help manuals.

Richard P. Swinson, MD, is professor emeritus and past chair of the department of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, Canada. Previously, he was medical director of the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic, and psychiatrist-in-chief at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. He is the author/co-author of The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook and When Perfect Isn’t Good Enough Second Edition Praise This book has been awarded The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Self-Help Seal of Merit — an award bestowed on outstanding self-help books that are consistent with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles and that incorporate scientifically tested strategies for overcoming mental health difficulties.

“An excellent description of perfectionism and its self-sabotaging disadvantages. Presents many efficient and effective cognitive-behavioral methods for dealing with and minimizing this affliction. Quite practical and thorough—but nicely flexible and un-perfectionistic!” —Albert Ellis, Ph.D., president of the Albert Ellis Institute in New York City and author of A Guide to Rational Living

“All of us know someone who is a perfectionist and most of us have joked about it at one time or another. For some, it can be a useful trait that ensures some organization in a disorganized world. But for those individuals coping with too much perfectionism, it can be a curse that takes the pleasure out of life and in some cases can lead to severe anxiety disorders. Now two leading mental health practitioners and clinical scientists provide up-to-date, scientifically validated skills for overcoming perfectionism and regaining control of one’s life. This long overdue book should relieve much suffering and enhance functioning for the millions of individuals dealing with excessive perfectionism.” —David H. Barlow, Ph.D., professor of psychology and director of the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders at Boston University

“When Perfect Isn’t Good Enough surpasses any of the other books on perfectionism in quality and scope.  Antony and Swinson have synthesized what we know about perfectionism and used it to create the first well-integrated approach to reduce the suffering caused by it. The chapters clearly define perfectionism and provide concrete steps to master this demon. Final chapters focus on how perfectionism can manifest itself in other disorders, demonstrating how pernicious this phenomenon can be—and why such a book is so essential. This book will be invaluable to people suffering from perfectionism and to the therapists trying to help them.” —Randy O. Frost, Ph.D., professor of psychology at Smith College in Northampton, MA

“When Perfect Isn’t Good Enough is an excellent source for people looking to adjust their standards and expectations and, by so doing, increase the joy in their lives. It is easy to read, filled with solid advice, and based on the best scientific research. Unlike most other self-help books, the many exercises suggested by the authors provide the reader with the tools to put these words into action. Antony and Swinson have produced a thorough and systemic manual to lead the perfectionist out of the misery of depression, anger, worry, and social anxiety, and into the promised land of realistic self-evaluation, self-esteem, and positive interpersonal relations. Bravo!” —Richard Heimberg, Ph.D., Adult Anxiety Clinic in the department of psychology at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA