How Do I Stop Being So Hard on the People I Love?

In this episode, we tackle other-oriented perfectionism—the habit of holding the people around us to impossible standards—and why it feels so hard to let go. Thanks to listener Kelsey’s question, we explore what we gain from being tough on others, what it costs us in our closest relationships, and concrete ways to loosen our grip without losing our values. If you’ve ever felt irritated by small mistakes, struggled to choose between being right and staying connected, or wondered how to go easier on the people you love, this week’s episode is for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ellenhendriksen.substack.com