Caroline Harper, mental health lead at Bupa UK, says that while perfectionism can keep you motivated, it can “leave you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted”.

“Perfectionism burnout happens when you feel emotionally and physically fatigued, and the pressure you’re under exceeds your ability to cope,” she tells Stylist.

“Signs of perfectionism burnout include not being able to perform or complete a task until it’s done perfectly, excessive list-making, avoiding situations that you feel have a risk of failure, and repeatedly checking over your work. If you repeatedly set yourself impossible standards, you’re at risk of experiencing perfectionism burnout.”

My own perfectionism has stopped me from attempting new hobbies because it’s frustrating not to master things very quickly. After picking up an injury during the London Marathon, I was reluctant to take up new sports – despite wanting to be more active again. I knew that I wouldn’t be as good at cycling, dancing or climbing as I was at long-distance running, so couldn’t understand the point in bothering.

Fitness challenge: “5 new fitness activities that helped me beat perfectionism”