EP 505: Unhooking from Perfectionism with Mary

In this session, Christine coaches Mary, a high-achieving working mom who feels stuck in an anxious loop of striving, self-pressure, and "never-enoughness." Underneath her drive for excellence is a deep fear of falling behind or being seen as "not good enough." Together, they unpack the childhood roots of her perfectionism and explore how nervous system patterns have reinforced the belief that love and safety must be earned through overachievement. If you're someone who struggles to be present, always feels like you have to "do more," or battles guilt for not being the perfect parent or partner, this episode will hit home. Consider/Ask Yourself: Do you define yourself by your productivity or achievements? Are you rarely satisfied—even when you reach your goals? Do you feel guilty for relaxing or being "unproductive"? Is it hard to be present with your children or loved ones? Is your inner critic louder than your inner cheerleader? Key Themes and Insights: Perfectionism is a protective pattern, not an identity. True excellence is rooted in love—not fear or self-judgment. You can be present with others without fixing yourself first. Compassion is more transformational than self-criticism. Children (and your inner child) thrive when you slow down, not when you perform. Ways to Integrate This Work: Create a daily ritual to transition from work mode to presence—especially with family. Let your children teach you presence through play, imagination, and simple joy. Notice when your anxious thoughts spiral, and give them a compassionate exit route. Replace judgment with curiosity: "What does this part of me really need?" Shift from proving your worth to practicing gentleness with yourself.   Upcoming Group Coaching Experience: Join Christine for her virtual group session on August 4th, where she'll guide you through powerful embodiment and nervous system practices to activate your divine capacity to receive. This is part two of her "Receive" series and is open to all women—whether or not you joined part one. Topic: The Superpower of Receiving When: August 4, 2025 Cost: $20 Replay Available: Yes Register: christinehassler.com/group Social Media + Resources: Christine Hassler — Take a Coaching Assessment Christine Hassler Podcasts Including Coaches Corner Christine on Facebook Expectation Hangover by Christine Hassler @ChristineHassler on Twitter @ChristineHassler on Instagram @SacredUnionCouples on Instagram Email: [email protected] — For information on any of my services! Get on the waitlist to be coached on the show! Get on the list to be notified about the upcoming certification program for coaches.