The Best of You
Episode 152: The Anxiety Beneath Perfectionism—Why Trying Harder Won't Set You Free
Apr 7, 2025
Explore the compelling link between perfectionism and anxiety, revealing how the need for flawlessness often masks deeper fears. Discover why striving for perfection rarely leads to satisfaction. Learn to identify the subtle signs of anxiety and the surprising questions to ask yourself when perfectionism takes hold. Gain practical strategies to break free from these crippling behaviors. Embrace vulnerability, self-compassion, and the invaluable idea that love and worth don’t hinge on being perfect.
23:15
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Quick takeaways
- Perfectionism often masks deeper anxieties, leading individuals to overwork and people-please instead of connecting with their true feelings.
- To overcome perfectionism, one must confront the underlying fears of disapproval or inadequacy that drive compulsive behaviors.
Deep dives
The Roots of Perfectionism
Perfectionism is often driven by underlying anxiety rather than the pursuit of excellence itself. The speaker reflects on their personal experiences, revealing how what seemed like a strong work ethic was, in fact, a mask for anxiety manifested through perfectionistic behavior. This anxiety appeared in various forms, such as overworking, people-pleasing, and striving to present a flawless image to others. As the speaker navigated their own journey, they realized that this incessant need for perfection kept them disconnected from their true feelings and needs.
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