206. A Fresh Take on Perfectionism

What if perfectionism isn’t something we need to overcome—but something we need to understand differently? In this episode of Tend HER Wild, we explore perfectionism through a new lens. Rather than viewing it as a flaw to fix, we discuss the difference between healthy striving and the forms of perfectionism that keep us disconnected from our authentic selves. We share our own stories of perfectionism, examine how culture shapes our expectations, and explore why perfectionism is often less about achievement and more about managing anxiety and seeking safety.  In todays episode we draw on the work of Brené Brown, Clarissa Pinkola Estés, and Marion Woodman, and we unpack: The difference between adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism Why high standards aren’t the problem The role of the inner critic How perfectionism impacts women, creativity, and leadership The connection between perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, and depression Why socially prescribed perfectionism may be the most harmful form How perfectionism can keep us from creating the life we’re longing for As Clarissa Pinkola Estés reminds us, we don’t need perfect strength—we need adequate strength to be ourselves. Sometimes 75% is enough. A flower doesn’t need to be fully open to be blooming. If you’ve been feeling disconnected from yourself, navigating burnout or grief, constantly over-performing, or longing for a more authentic and intuitive life, this conversation is for you. Resources Mentioned Wisdom Wednesday: Perfectionism https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6mh3lK4zxc Other Episodes You Might Like:  Episode 32: Perfectionism (Referenced in today’s conversation) Episode 100: The Upper Limit: Living in Your Full Potential  Episode 161: Intergenerational Trauma Episode 167: Dr. Jackie Kamradt: Being a Mom is the Best Thing for my OCD Keep Her Wild: A Rewilding Experience for Women If this episode resonated with you, consider joining our live online Keep Her Wild course this July. Together we’ll explore intuition, authenticity, self-trust, and reconnecting with the deeper wisdom that already lives within you. Registration and details: https://dryogamomma.com/keepherwild/ Today’s Episode sponsored by: Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Heartland Yoga (https://heartlandyoga.com/) Want to do coaching work with Kate or mind-body psychotherapy with Dr. Betsy?  Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Want to go on retreat? Want to join Betsy in Mexico in February May 20-27, 2027 on retreat?  This beautiful retreat center in the nourishing haven of Playa Chacala on the Pacific Ocean will the home for a week of deep self-care.  Teaching retreat is one of Betsy’s favorite jobs as it gives her a chance to move into deeper realms with people over an extended period of time using the tools of yoga, meditation, hypnosis, energy work, and self-inquiry.  People typically observe deep shifts and quantum leaps forward on such retreats.   All the details here! Connect With Us Follow along and continue the conversation: Tend HER Wild Podcast Instagram: @tendherwild Instagram: @katemorelandcoaching If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a woman who may need this conversation today.  Source