Be More Like a Bear: Letting Go of Comparison in Perimenopause

What if you stopped comparing yourself to everyone else and simply allowed yourself to be? In this episode, Roberta explores a clip featuring Stephen Fry and Robin Williams, where Fry makes a striking observation: animals don’t try to be other animals — but humans try to be someone else every single day.During perimenopause and postmenopause, when identity shifts are already happening — physically, emotionally, and socially — comparison becomes even more damaging. Hormonal changes lower resilience, increase cortisol, and intensify symptoms such as anxiety, overwhelm, fatigue, hot flushes, and disrupted sleep. Trying to be your younger self, or trying to match the filtered lives you see online, only ramps up stress.In this episode, Roberta breaks down why comparison is so corrosive at this stage of life, how it feeds perfectionism and low self-esteem, and why this matters biologically — not just psychologically. More importantly, she explains how to step out of the comparison trap using her EESE Framework™, a practical process for exploring, evaluating, shifting, and embedding new subconscious patterns.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why comparison is heightened during perimenopauseHow cortisol, stress, and hormonal changes worsen symptomsWhy perfectionism and “keeping up” make midlife feel harderHow social media distorts reality and fuels low self-worthThe danger of comparing your “outtakes” to someone else’s “showreel”How to shift unhelpful patterns using the EESE Framework™Practical tools such as journaling, reframing, visualisation, and affirmationsWhy becoming “more yourself” — not more like others — is key to wellbeing in midlifeThis conversation is ideal for women who feel lost, pressured, or not “good enough” as their identity evolves in menopause. It offers both insight and practical, evidence-informed strategies to help you reconnect with who you truly are.Support Mentioned in This EpisodeIf you’re ready to change long-standing patterns and let go of comparison:Subconscious & Mindset Mini Course — learn the EESE Framework™ step by step https://www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk/sc-minicourse CONTROL Sessions — 1:1 subconscious work to shift unhelpful patternsMenopause MOT — personalised support for your symptoms, mindset, and overall wellbeingSend us Fan Mailwww.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.ukFree Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watchSupporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools.Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.