Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson cover image

Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Embracing Perfectionism with Katherine Morgan Schafler

Aug 19, 2024
Katherine Morgan Schafler, a therapist and ex-Google mental health expert, dives into the double-edged sword of perfectionism. She unpacks how it can be both a superpower and a stumbling block, emphasizing the need for a positive shift in our self-criticism language. Katherine discusses the five types of perfectionists and challenges the notion that perfectionism is merely a defense against criticism. She advocates for self-compassion over self-punishment and explores how to keep perfectionism in check while pursuing meaningful goals.
01:21:21

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword, where adaptive perfectionists draw inspiration from ideals while maladaptive ones set unrealistic standards that breed anxiety.
  • Understanding the distinction between the five types of perfectionists helps individuals recognize their tendencies and develop a healthier relationship with their aspirations.

Deep dives

Understanding Perfectionism

Perfectionism can be seen as a dual-edged sword, possessing both positive and negative qualities. It is not inherently a disorder, but rather a natural and human characteristic that manifests differently across individuals. Healthy perfectionists view their ideals as sources of inspiration, while unhealthy or maladaptive perfectionists confuse ideals with goals and feel pressured to achieve them. This confusion leads to anxiety and frustration, as they often set unattainable standards for themselves that can hinder their overall well-being.

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