How To Overcome Perfectionism & Self-Criticism w/ Expert Dr. Ellen Hendriksen

If perfectionism is your favorite weakness, this one’s for you. Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, clinical psychologist and author of How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists, joins Vic to unpack the roots of perfectionism, how it shows up in everyday life, and why so many of us feel like we have to earn our worth. They explore the difference between healthy ambition and toxic self-criticism, how to find that middle ground where you’re still growing without burning out, and what it really means to practice self-compassion. Vic opens up about her own struggles with perfectionism—from how playing D1 volleyball enhanced her inner critic to why she regrets overplanning Max’s 30th birthday—and shares the tools she’s learning to prioritize presence over performance. Whether you overthink, overachieve, or feel like you’re never quite doing enough, this conversation will help you let go of the pressure and embrace the messiness of being human.

Website: ellenhendriksen.com

Instagram: @ellen_hendriksen

Book: How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists by Dr. Ellen Hendriksen

// SPONSORS // 

Quince: Treat your closet to a little summer glow-up with Quince. Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns! 

Paper Doll By Dylan Mulvaney: Buy your copy of Paper Doll here or wherever books are sold!

Paired: Head to paired.com/realpod to get a 7-day free trail and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.