Episode 6: The Perfectionist Mask

July 29, 2025

Episode 6: The Perfectionist Mask

You’ve always been the one who double-checks. Over-prepares. Anticipates what could go wrong before anyone else even thinks of it.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the layers of the Perfectionist Mask. The one that tells you your value is in your flawlessness. That mistakes = failure. That being anything less than exceptional is unacceptable.

🎧 Listen to Episode 6 here

We’ll explore where this mask gets installed (hint: it often starts young), how it gets reinforced in male-dominated spaces, and why even your highest achievements can leave you feeling empty. And more importantly—what it looks like to trade perfection for peace.

Power Prompt:
What are you trying to control by being perfect—and what would happen if you let that go?

P.S.
Let this be your reminder: you’re not here to prove. You’re here to be. And that’s more than enough.

Episode Transcript

UIP Ep. 6 – The Perfectionist Mask

You know what perfectionism really is? It's not about high standards. It's about survival. Perfectionism is what we put on when we believe we'll only be safe if we get everything exactly right. But here's the truth: you can't build, grow, or lead while holding your breath. And perfectionism is just one long, exhausting inhale.

We talk about how this mask shows up in everyday life—not just in spotless homes and perfect calendars, but in business too:
- The coach who won’t post because her voice doesn’t feel “ready”
- The strategist who keeps tweaking the offer instead of launching it
- The leader who shares brilliance in private but hides from the spotlight

The cost? Perfectionism delays visibility, dilutes authenticity, and drains impact.

Research shows it’s directly tied to procrastination and burnout—especially for women under 45. But here’s what shifts when we drop the mask:
- We ship before we’re ready
- We invite connection over polish
- We lead from truth, not performance

Your Power Prompts this week:
- I’m perfecting ________ to avoid ________.
- If I weren’t afraid of judgment, I would share ________.
- Good enough would look like ________.

Courage, not perfection, is what builds real power.

Affiliate Mention:
I use the Five Minute Journal from Intelligent Change to anchor my reflection. Use code UNAPOLOGETIC10 for 10% off at intelligentchange.com.

If this resonated, subscribe to the podcast and share it with a woman who’s been perfecting instead of posting.

Your unapologetic era starts now.

Episode 6: The Perfectionist Mask

Episode 6: The Perfectionist Mask

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