Shattering the Illusion of Perfection: Dr. Tara Sanderson's Guide to Anxiety Recovery
I really value that element of making sure that people, when they start to say things like: I'm so dumb, right, you know I will never be able to do this- and helping them reframe that back to the middle, back to that gray area that says you are just who you are.
Perfectionism often masquerades as a badge of honor, but for those grappling with anxiety, it can be a formidable barrier to recovery. In this episode of 'The Anxious Truth' podcast, Drew Linsalata sits down with Dr. Tara Sanderson, a seasoned psychologist who not only treats anxiety but has personally battled the 'curse' of perfectionism. Together, they unravel the complexities of this self-imposed label and its impact on mental health. Dr.
Sanderson shares her journey through perfectionism, shedding light on how it complicates the path to overcoming anxiety. She emphasizes the need for self-awareness and recognizing when perfectionist tendencies are doing more harm than good. The conversation dives deep into practical strategies for shifting these harmful thought patterns, including Dr. Sanderson's SOBER acronym for decision-making: Stop, Observe, Breathe, Examine, Respond. The episode isn't just about identifying the problem; it's about finding solutions. Dr.
Sanderson and Drew explore the importance of therapy, particularly evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). They stress the significance of finding a therapist who understands the nuances of anxiety and perfectionism. Listeners will walk away with actionable advice on embracing imperfection and fostering a healthier mindset. Dr. Sanderson's message is clear: striving for progress, not perfection, is key to managing anxiety.
Her insights on mindfulness and reframing negative self-talk are invaluable tools for anyone feeling trapped by their own high standards. Tune in to hear Dr. Sanderson's empowering message: 'You are just who you are. Embrace imperfection and strive for progress, not perfection'. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from the chains of perfectionism and make strides in their anxiety recovery journey.