Ep 279: The perfectionist-HSP loop

SelfKind with Erica Webb

Do you struggle with perfectionism as a Highly Sensitive Person? Or perhaps you simply know that you hold yourself to VERY high standards that often have you scrambling to keep up and achieve at the level you most desire. It can be exhausting running on this treadmill …

In this episode of SelfKind with Erica Webb (that’s me!) I’m exploring this challenge faced by many highly sensitive people (HSPs) who find themselves trapped in a perfectionism loop.

You will hear:

• What perfectionism is
• Why it’s so important to recognise the inherent imperfection of being human
• Why patterns of high-achieving and perfectionism can begin in childhood as we learn what we need to do and who we need to be to be safe in the world
• How to use your body and your self-talk to reassure your nervous system that you’re safe when trying something new (i.e. not doing everything to 110%)
• Why self-compassion is vital in this process
• The distinction between pursuing quality and excellence that feeds your sense of meaning versus the pursuit of excellence at the expense of your wellbeing

About your host, Erica Webb:

Erica Webb is a registered counsellor, somatic exercise coach and highly sensitive person. She supports other highly sensitive people to discover their sensitivity superpowers and more confidently navigate the tricky bits of being a sensitive person in an often insensitive world.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to HSP Perfectionism Loop

00:22 Understanding Perfectionism

01:45 The HSP Experience

03:28 Childhood Roots of Perfectionism

05:36 Breaking the Perfectionism Loop

08:18 Tips for Overcoming Perfectionism

11:44 The Role of Self-Compassion

16:07 Balancing High Standards and Wellbeing

17:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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