

Letting Go of the Pressure To Be Perfect
15 snips Jan 10, 2025
Ellen Hendrickson, a clinical psychologist at Boston University's Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and author of "How to Be Enough," discusses letting go of perfectionism. She examines its impact on mental health and advocates for 'anti-resolutions' focused on self-acceptance. The conversation emphasizes nurturing authentic relationships and practicing vulnerability over pursuing unattainable ideals. Strategies like cognitive diffusion and self-compassion are explored, making a compelling case for redefining our relationship with perfection.
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Physical Manifestations of Perfectionism
- Dr. Ellen Hendrickson experienced physical symptoms like a GI illness and muscle tightness.
- These were her body's response to the pressure of perfectionism.
Perfectionism in Disguise
- Perfectionism is often at the core of various challenges, but people rarely identify themselves as perfectionists.
- Instead, they express feelings of failure, falling behind, or being overwhelmed.
Perfectionism's Health Impacts
- Perfectionism is linked to various mental and physical health issues, including eating disorders, depression, OCD, and even migraines.
- It's a central component in many people's overlapping challenges.