Sometimes your body notices stress before your mind catches up. You feel tense in your shoulders, get frequent headaches, and feel restless all the time. But you think, why?

You might tell yourself, "I'm fine. I just have a lot going on." Meanwhile, your body may be telling a different story. When we begin to have somatic complaints it is our bodies way of saying “Hi we need a shift!” 

What Is the Difference Between Excellence and Perfectionism?

Wanting to do your best isn't the same as needing to be perfect. Excellence is about growing from the mistakes and perfectionism is dwelling on the mistakes and fear driven. 

Excellence: You set high standards, put in effort, learn from mistakes, and can still feel proud of yourself when things don't go exactly as planned. Understanding that it is about the process not the product. 

Perfectionism is often about fear. You may feel like mistakes aren't acceptable, your work is never good enough, or your worth depends on getting things right. You never feel comfortable or complete unless everything is “just right.” 

Are High Standards the Problem?

Having high standards isn't a flaw. In fact, high standards can help you grow, stay motivated, and accomplish meaningful goals. High standards when seen as a strength can actually help you feel more confident, joyful, and free. 

Most perfectionists don't want to become less driven—they want to stop feeling exhausted. You feel guilty for relaxing and feel tense and constant restlessness. Perfectionism isn't the enemy. It's a powerful set of strengths that can become trapped in fear. When you learn to shift from fear-driven perfectionism to purpose-driven excellence, those same qualities become your greatest assets.

Discover what research actually says about breathwork for anxiety, how it supports your nervous system, and when breathing exercises are most effective.

Learn what research actually says about movement and exercise for anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional well-being in high-achieving teens and young adults.

Learn what research says about journaling for anxiety and perfectionism, why it helps high-achieving teens and young adults, and how to avoid turning it into another thing to perfect.

Discover what research really says about mindfulness for high-achieving teens and young adults, including what it helps with, what it doesn't, and when therapy may be needed.

Perfectionist and hIgh achieving teens might need more support than you assume. Learn more about the support that teens that are perfectionists may need during the summer months.

Life transitions, whether planned or unexpected, often bring a mix of emotions that can significantly impact our physical and mental well-being. From career changes to personal losses, these shifts can challenge our equilibrium. Understanding the body-mind connection and incorporating regular movement practices into our routines can play a pivotal role in maintaining mental health during these times.