Why it matters
Creates self-hate and false idealized identity.
Core term · Karen Horney
The Tyranny of the Should
The relentless inner list of how we ought to be — flawless, tireless, endlessly kind — that punishes us for falling short of an impossible standard.
Areas of life
Perfectionismshame
How to handle it
Replace I must be perfect with realistic self-respect.
Who shaped this idea
The thinker behind it
From concept to practice
Turn The Tyranny of the Should into a question you can answer.
Psipas asks you one small, honest question at a time — and builds the picture from your answers.