The CBT Workbook for Perfectionism: Evidence-Based Skills to Help You Let Go of Self-Criticism, Build Self-Esteem, and Find Balance Paperback – January 2, 2019

I absolutely love this workbook. It truly is like having a really good therapy session. The author's style of writing is clear and easy to absorb. This workbook speaks to me in ways that other similar books haven't. CBT is a proven technique, and this workbook will absolutely aid in addressing and overcoming perfectionism (but only if the reader is willing to do the work). Personally, I believe one of the true benefits of a workbook like this is that while answering the questions and writing a response to the lesson, the act of writing itself will sometimes allow otherwise hidden beliefs and feelings to come to the surface. I do a few pages each morning and have found it to be a great and positive way to start my day. (I wish the author had similar workbooks on topic such as Self-Esteem and Self-Compassion.)

There are a lot of people out there who struggle with perfectionism or fear of failure at some point in time - myself included. So when my friend and colleague Sharon Martin, LCSW sent me her book, of course I couldn't wait for the opportunity to read it and snapped it up quickly. Although I was originally sent a copy of the book from the publisher for review, I will tell you that I have had a hard time keeping a copy due to utilizing it as a resource for my clients. So, I have ordered more copies, including a Kindle. Here is a breakdown of my review:Pros:1) Pricing was efficient. I ordered multiple copies, so it was good that the book didn't drain my purse.2) Easy to read, mostly laymen's terms. I would say the max is a 5th grade reading level.3) I appreciate the disclaimers given in the front of the book about what people should do if negative/overwhelming feelings come up and how this book can be used as an extension of work with a therapist.4) The definition of perfectionism, as well as the different types of perfectionism were easy to understand and the examples used to further clarify perfectionism were great, and I think most people who struggle with perfectionism have an "aha moment" as they identify themselves.5) The self-assessment tool to further clarify fears and struggles was also great, because people can identify what exactly their struggles are with perfectionism.6) Exercises and homework were easy, relevent, and can be done in a timely manner.7) Other problem areas around perfectionism were identified such as busyness, fear, procrastination, etc were also identified and the book also explained how these self-sabotaging behaviors deepened perfectionist behaviors.8) One of the things that I liked most about the book were tips and suggestions on self-care and self-compassion. One of the biggest complaints that I hear from people are that they don't know how to take care of or be kind to themselves. I think the breakdown of ways to care for and love ourselves is a gem within itself.Cons:1) I wish there were a CD or some type of online tool where sheets could be printed out. It's helpful to go over this with clients in sessions.2) This book should be spiral-bound or lie flat. It's easier to write in workbook that isn't trying to close.Bottom Line: This book is an excellent resource for those looking to work through and conquer their issues with perfectionism. I would highly recommend it. It speaks in lay-person terms, and is a helpful resource for anyone trying to overcome and manage perfectionism. Disclaimer please do not expect your working through this book to cure your perfectionism. It is not a cure, but rather 1 tool that can be used to help you manage it.As a last note to this review: I am really proud of Sharon Martin, LCSW. This book is a huge accomplishment and one that I would stand by and recommend time and againas it speaks to so many of our painpoints of wanting to be perfect and be validated by others - for whatever reason. Thank you so much for this wonderful gift as you have let people know, that they can and should be perfectly happy being imperfect and validating and loving themselves.

If CBT has helped you, this maybe the next CBT book to read. Helped me so much and understand and make changes in my life!

I was looking for a little step-by-step curriculum to use with my younger clients. This is not what I was looking for but I was able to summarize the sections to be a little more child friendly. Will work but wish I could find a book for the younger crowd.

This is a very informative and helpful workbook. Sharon Martin has a Masters degree in Social Work and has over 20 years of clinical experience as a licensed clinical social worker. With all that though her book is able to be read by anyone with a high school education. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is new to me and apparently it focuses on the power of our thoughts to control our actions and behaviors. By getting those thoughts out of our heads and onto paper or into an electronic device it allows us to evaluate and develop healthier thought responses in the future. Sharon has many sheets which can be downloaded that can be filled out to aid in the said process. Perfectionism involves holding the host and others to impossibly high standards. Pursuing excellence is not perfectionism and Sharon makes the distinction. Perfectionists make assumptions, use cognitive distortions, self blame and self criticize. The worksheets Sharon has links for helps address these issues. You fill out the sheets, see what's going on and develop new healthy thought responses which in turn changes your outcomes and life. Put in the work and you will see the results. Recovery is a process that is possible but takes time and persistence. Sharon's book helps you understand possible ways perfectionism may have developed without blaming or shaming. By increasing self care and self compassion you become more productive and a greater sense of wellness and health. Perfectionists struggle with self care but flex your courage muscle you can do it. Sharon is the guide and partner you want in your perfectionism recovery. This workbook is a very good tool for that recovery. I purchased this book from Amazon on May 16, 2019 (Order # 114...1819)

Life-changing, honestly. Lots of exercises to go through to help you on your journey. I gained a lot of insight from going through them on my own, but I know this would be an excellent companion for CBT. If you are someone who benefits from doing workbook type exercises to channel your thoughts, this book will be invaluable.