The name given to a person that chooses to complete random tasks to perfection, but lacks the ability to perfect or even attempt the other necessary tasks in life. A Selective Perfectionist has the full potential to do everything "
just right" but chooses to waste all of their time perfecting something else when other things require attention. Also known as
procrastinating.
See also:
Selective hearing
Example one:
John: *In an over-enthusiastic voice* "I just spent
7 hours at work today organizing and perfecting some file drawers, I even re-color coded everything and put it in super-alphabetical order"
Diane: "Well that's great for you John, but have you done your laundry yet or taken out the garbage?"
John: "Uh, no."
Jane: "You're such a
selective perfectionist. I want a divorce."
Example two:
Mom: "
Jeffrey, have you cleaned up your room yet or packed for the Florida trip?"
Jeffrey: "Not jussst yet. See, I was playing
Spore and I started creating my creature, then it needed wings, and I thought some horns would look pretty cool. Then I just had to give it some big eyes and razors for feet. And..."
Mom: "For f@#$ sake Jeffrey, you're 24. Put down the video game and turn your selective perfectionst attitude towards things that need your attention, like your room, or a SHOWER. I need a drink"