Welcome to Part 2 of our series on Perfectionism! In Part 1 of this series, we explored how perfectionism can keep your nervous system stuck in "performance mode," treating everyday situations as though they're high-stakes events. We talked about: How our brains can learn to interpret things like feeling embarrassed, judged, or less than as threats; That perfectionists may begin to find strategies to avoid these perceived dangers, and Why rest rarely feels restful for the per

When most people hear the word perfectionism, they picture someone who is highly organized, successful, or simply has impossibly high standards. They may picture the person at work or school that says, “oh, let me - I’m a perfectionist.” You may even picture yourself! Perfectionism, however, often isn't about wanting things to be perfect. It's about wanting to avoid what perfection feels like it protects us from. For one person, the thing that feels the most dangerous might b

As we move into the second half of the year, many people find themselves taking stock of where they are compared to where they thought they would be. The goals that felt exciting in January may now feel distant, unfinished, or even forgotten. For some, this realization can bring feelings of guilt, frustration, or self-criticism. If your motivation isn't what it was at the beginning of the year, you're not alone - and it doesn't mean you've failed. Motivation naturally ebbs an

Welcome to part three of our series on living a values-based life, even when the world around you feels exhausting. If you missed part two, we talked about: How it’s valid to feel like the current sociopolitical state of the world is exhausting. The importance of taking values-based actions, even if you feel like there is little in your control. That nurturing yourself and giving your nervous system a break is essential for survival. Today, we’re shifting to another area of l