Secret #52: Toxic Striving with Dr. Paula Freedman Diamond

Are you caught in the never-ending race for perfection, feeling burned out by hustle culture and the constant pressure to optimize every corner of your life? In this eye-opening episode, we reveal the truth about toxic striving, uncovering why it’s so hard to break free from relentless self-improvement, comparison traps on social media, and the modern epidemic of never feeling “good enough.”

Clinical psychologist and intuitive eating counselor Dr. Paula Freedman Diamond joins hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry to unpack the roots of toxic striving, from childhood messaging to societal expectations—and why “striving” can silently morph into anxiety, perfectionism, and even disconnection from what really matters. Discover how to spot the warning signs when high standards turn toxic, and learn science-backed strategies to move from rigid self-criticism to a more compassionate, values-driven life.

Whether you’re a high achiever, a parent worried about doing everything “right,” or just exhausted from trying to keep up, this episode offers practical tips and much-needed validation. Tune in for real-world stories, mindset shifts, and actionable advice on living well—without letting the pursuit of success run your life.

Highlights:

• Toxic striving and perfectionist culture
• Social media and hustle culture pressures
• Rule-based versus values-based living
• Impact of societal expectations on self-worth
• Embracing imperfection and psychological flexibility

View extended shownotes here

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