perfectionism ruined years of my life

Used to emphasize that a previous statement or assumption is incorrect, often to highlight that a situation was much more serious, significant, or intense than it appeared to be.

“what was okay to leave unfinished. That sounds like a small difference. Um but it really wasn't. It almost destroyed my college career. People usually imagine perfectionism looking like someone color coding their notes or obsess obsessing over tiny details. - Many people assumed the project was simple, but it really wasn't. - He thought the transition to a new city would be easy, but it really wasn't. - I expected the exam to be straightforward, but it really wasn't and I struggled to finish.”