Why do so many capable, high-performing people end up exhausted, and emotionally drained even when they’re doing everything “right”? In this episode, I sit with psychologist Dr. Thomas Greenspon to talk about perfectionism, shame, and self-worth. Thomas breaks down why perfectionism isn’t actually about excellence, then entrepreneur Eleanor Beaton shares how perfectionism shaped her leadership, ambition, and identity and what changed when she stopped chasing perfection and started embracing wholeness instead. Get ready to rethink the way you work, care for others, and define success.

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In this Episode, You Will Learn

00:00 What is perfectionism?

08:30 What’s the difference between perfectionism and the pursuit of excellence?

10:00 How perfectionism becomes a coping mechanism for anxiety.

14:30 What’s the connection between perfectionism, depression, and hopelessness?

17:00 How childhood experiences shape perfectionism.

20:45 Why humans are wired for connection and belonging.

22:45 How modern culture rewards perfectionism and overachievement.

23:30 What can parents do to help perfectionistic kids?

25:45 The 4 things that help people overcome perfectionism.

32:45 Why perfectionism disconnects you from our wholeness.

35:30 How perfectionism delays growth and keeps people stuck.

41:00 Why entrepreneurship becomes personal development work.

44:00 How perfectionism shows up as avoidance and overwork.

46:30 What are the signs that perfectionism is running your life?

Resources + Links

Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever

Watch the podcast on YouTube 

Find more resources on our website morraam.com

Follow

Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam