107: Perfectionism and Self-Doubt in Midlife: How Women Over 40 Move Forward

Do you hate to fail and can't move forward unless it's perfect? In this soul-nourishing episode of the Emotional Eats Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Sarabia, host of the Fearless Forward podcast and a guide for women who are ready to stop second-guessing and start living with purpose. We talk about the emotional weight of identity loss in motherhood, the perfectionism that paralyzes progress, and the fear that keeps so many midlife women from stepping into their calling—whether that means starting a podcast, going after a dream, or simply learning to ballroom dance at 72. Michelle shares her own story of feeling lost after her kids left home and how faith, stillness, and "doing it messy" helped her move forward. She gives powerful, faith-filled advice for women who overthink, who doubt their worth, and who wonder if it's too late to live with purpose. If you've ever wrestled with fear of failure, emotional eating as a coping mechanism for perfectionism, or feeling like your dreams no longer matter—this episode will show you how to move fearlessly forward. 🔥 Topics We Cover: Why perfectionism is a hidden form of fear How to take action even when you don't know the full plan Finding your identity again after motherhood or loss Rewiring self-doubt and limiting beliefs Why failure can refine, not define you The emotional impact of "what will they think of me?" Creating peace through morning routines and stillness How joy and purpose can be rediscovered—even without a career What it means to be coached by God 🎙 About Michelle Sarabia Michelle Sarabia helps leaders, creators, and action-takers turn life's pivots into purpose without overthinking, second-guessing, or waiting for the perfect moment. She's the founder of the Fearless Forward movement and podcast, and her mission is simple: to help women realize they're not stuck—they're just scared. Through her own story of loss, transitions, and faith-driven pivots, Michelle leads others with wisdom, grace, and truth. 💬 Connect with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellemsarabia/ Website: https://www.michellesarabia.com/  Fearless Forward Podcast with Michelle Sarabia   Note: The information in this podcast is not intended to replace working with your doctor, medical provider, or mental health professional. It is for conversation, information, and entertainment only.     Hey Cool Girl, Welcome to the Collective for Midlife Reset and Support! Join Here:  https://www.skool.com/coolgirlcollective/ Join us for a  space to connect, learn, and grow with other amazing women over 40 who are navigating midlife — everything from hormones, menopause weight gain, post menopause and emotional eating to holistic healing, calming the nervous system, and rediscovering who you are in this season of life Connect With Kim: Emotional Eats Podcast: Emotional Eats Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emotional-eats-podcast-end-emotional-eating-weight/id1686639038 Website:  https://wellspringcounselingandhealth.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kimhynesmidlife/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@kimhynesmidlife TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@kimemotionaleats YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Kimhynesmidlife   Want to improve your midlife focus or sleep?  Check out Brain.fm.  This app has help me be more productive, get the best afternoon powernaps and bring down my nervous system….fast.  Get 30 days for free here.  https://www.brain.fm/kimhyneshealth Get my favorite healthy Hot Chocolate (Organifi Chocolate Gold) here: https://www.organifishop.com/ Use code:  KIMH for 20 % off This dark chocolate tumeric tea helps promote relaxation and calm.  It's the perfect substitute for dessert and a great way to help promote sleep. Other links Kim receives commission on some of these products which are used to continue providing free content and produce the Emotional Eats Podcast. LMNT http://elementallabs.refr.cc/kimhynes   ParaFy Parasite Cleansing Kit https://rogershood.com/ref/1961/ Code: KIMH