How Perfectionism Leads To Binge Eating

Is perfectionism quietly affecting your relationship with food? In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Ellen Hendriksen to explore how perfectionism fuels anxiety, food obsession, and self-criticism—and how self-compassion can help you create lasting freedom. If you're tired of chasing impossible standards and want a healthier mindset around food and life, this conversation is for you.When Healthy Eating Becomes an ObsessionI share how my own wellness journey slowly shifted from wanting to nourish my body to becoming consumed by food rules, labels, and the pressure to eat perfectly.The intention started from a good place—but over time, "healthy" became stressful instead of freeing.Perfectionism Is About Worth, Not StandardsDr. Hendriksen explains that perfectionists aren't simply people with high standards.They're people who believe they have to earn love, acceptance, or belonging by achieving, performing, or getting everything right.That distinction changes everything.The Hidden Habits That Keep Anxiety AliveTogether, we explore the patterns that perfectionists often fall into:-All-or-nothing thinking-Fixating on mistakes instead of progress-Constant self-criticism-Moving the goalposts every time success is achievedThese habits don't motivate growth—they fuel anxiety and keep us disconnected from ourselves.Excellence Doesn't Require PerfectionOne of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that letting go of perfection doesn't mean lowering your standards.It means pursuing excellence with self-compassion instead of self-judgment.Growth becomes sustainable when your identity isn't tied to your performance.Perfection promises certainty, but often delivers anxiety.Healing begins when you stop chasing flawless and start embracing authentic.You don't have to earn your worth.You already have it.Book your FREE 30-minute Food Freedom Call and start your journey to lasting change! www.sherryshabanfitness.com/clarityDiscover the skill that will set the next generation of coaches apart.Grab your FREE copy of ‘Irreplaceable Coach Playbook': www.mpwfpractitioner.comListen & SubscribeCatch more episodes at www.makepeacewithfood.com/podcast or subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube so you never miss an episode!Connect & Go DeeperJoin our Facebook Community: www.myfoodfreedomlifestyle.comWork with Sherry: www.sherryshaban.com/transformExplore more resources: www.makepeacewithfood.comShare Your TakeawayTag us on Instagram (@makepeacewithfoodofficial), Facebook (@MakePeaceWithFoodOfficial), TikTok (@sherryshaban), or LinkedIn (sherryshaban) and share your biggest insight from this episode!