High-Functioning Anxiety: Why Being the "Strong One" is Exhausting

Are you applauded for having it all together, but deep down you feel like you’re running on empty? In this episode, I'm joined by award-winning psychotherapist and self-esteem expert Lisa Skeffington to finally put words to the hidden struggle so many ambitious women face: high-functioning anxiety.We unpack why being the "strong one" isn’t always a compliment – it’s often a heavy, lonely role that leaves you unable to “wobble,” even when you desperately need support. Lisa Skeffington explains how high-functioning anxiety can look like success on the outside but quietly drains you, why midlife cracks the mask of competence, and how small boundaries and moments of honesty can help you come back to yourself. Plus, Lisa Skeffington shares the three questions that will instantly reveal where you’re over-functioning and what it takes to step into authentic, empowered change.If you feel exhausted from holding everything (and everyone) together, tune in and let’s gently retire the mask – together. What You’ll Learn:How high-functioning anxiety differs from traditional anxiety and burnoutWhy midlife isn’t the problem – it’s the truth teller that reveals what’s really going onThe menopause myth: why hormonal changes often unmask (not create) anxietyThe emotional and physical cost of always being “the strong one”Practical boundary-setting strategies to gently reconnect with your real needs Music:  Title: Relax by SyncLabMusic Call to Action:💬 Like, subscribe, and share with a friend who’s been “fine” for too long, and let me know in the comments: What’s one thing you’ll pause before committing to this week?Ready to stop over-functioning and reclaim your confidence? Learn more and take Lisa Skeffington’s free Self-Esteem Reality Check Quiz. Click the link in resources.  📕 Resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep158 Take the Free Self-Esteem Reality Check Quiz: https://welcome.empoweredmomentum.com/  Related Episodes:🎧 Listen to these next:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18550342https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17668267https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17441076  ✏️ Disclaimer:This episode's information is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Please see a licensed healthcare provider for personal guidance. Guest views are their own. #HighFunctioningAnxiety #MidlifeWomen #BurnoutRecovery #CreateTheBestMe #WomensMentalHealth #ImposterSyndrome #MenopauseSupport #SelfCareForWomen📨 Newsletter:https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me:Website: https://createthebestme.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestmeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestmeLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request:https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv