Walking into my childhood bedroom, I was confronted by walls covered in fluorescent highlighted psychology notes. a shrine to the person I used to be. Someone who sacrificed breaks, friendships, and peace of mind in pursuit of being the best. That dedication helped me become the clinical psychologist I am today, but it came with a price I'm still calculating.

Now, sitting across from high achieving professionals and executives in my practice, I see my former self reflected back at me. They share the same struggle: how do you let go of behaviours that have brought you success? The truth is, many don't want to let go. And that makes sense, perfectionism has delivered results, accolades, and accomplishments. But here's what I've learned both personally and professionally: perfectionism doesn't always work, and eventually, it stops working altogether.

The real question isn't whether you need to settle for being average, it's whether you can embrace being extraordinary instead. There's a crucial difference. Being extraordinary means being the best version of yourself without sacrificing your values, your health, or the relationships that matter most. It's the difference between burning out and burning bright. And while my perfectionistic tendencies still creep back in, I've discovered that awareness and alignment with my values help me redirect toward something more sustainable and ultimately, more fulfilling.

If you're reading this and recognizing yourself in these words, know that seeking help isn't about becoming less than you are. It's about becoming more of who you truly want to be.