In this episode, host Maggie and guest Annie explore the dark side of perfectionism. They discuss its impact on relationships, mental health, and personal growth. They share personal experiences and coping mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and mindset shifts to manage perfectionist tendencies. The conversation highlights the need for safety and emotional regulation in overcoming perfectionism, encouraging imperfection and celebrating small victories.

Outline00:00 Introduction to Perfectionism

00:39 Defining Perfectionism

01:54 Personal Experiences with Perfectionism

03:26 The Impact of Social Media

04:41 Personifying Perfectionism

06:55 Coping Mechanisms for Perfectionism

08:12 Day-to-Day Impacts of Perfectionism

10:23 Mental Games of Perfectionism

11:05 Overthinking and Task Initiation

11:53 Finding Ways to Start and Finish

12:48 Reflecting on Achievements and Growth

15:33 The Impact of Perfectionism on Progress

17:56 The Role of Self-Compassion in Overcoming Perfectionism

21:25 Mindset Shifts for Embracing Imperfection

31:03 Finding Value in Good Enough Moments

31:03 Final Thoughts on Perfectionism and Progress

Reflection Questions

• In your own words what does perfectionism mean to you?
• When did you first start noticing it in your life?
• If you imagine your perfectionism as something separate from yourself what does it look like?
• How does it tend to speak to you, especially when doing something creative or something you love but could be seen as unproductive?
• Where do you notice it sneaking into your day to day choices?
• Are there patterns you only later realized were tied to perfectionism?
• Has it impacted your relationships with others and yourself? How?
• Are there any "good enough" moments you are secretly proud of?
• If your friend was going through a perfectionism spiral right now, what would you say to them?

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