Perfectionism and Rejection Sensitivity

In a world obsessed with being competent and perfect, it’s no wonder so many of us slip into the role of a perfectionist. Some of us even wear it like a badge of honor. Sure, it’s helped us in some ways—but let’s be real: at what cost? Perfectionism isn’t the same as striving for excellence. It’s often born out of survival, a way to suppress tough emotions like shame. And the truth? It wreaks havoc on our bodies and pulls us further away from our purpose and authenticity. And then there’s rejection. If we spend our lives dodging rejection in the name of being perfect, how can we ever truly know what true acceptance feels like, and in turn, learn who we truly are? On today’s episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer are back with Piper Rose to unpack these heavy hitters. They dive into why perfectionism clings on so tightly, how rejection sensitivity (and rejection sensitivity dysphoria) shows up as a coping mechanism, and—most importantly—how we can start to shift it. They explore how trust and safety in our bodies are essential before we can feel truly accepted by others. This means working with our nervous systems, using tools like NSI, to get to the root of it all. When we finally face how we’ve rejected or judged ourselves for not being “perfect,” we can take our first real steps toward authenticity—and eventually, toward the purpose we’re meant to live. Ready to dive deeper? Don’t miss today’s episode—it’s a conversation you won’t want to miss. Topics discussed in this episode: The difference between perfectionism and excellence Why control feels like safety Perfectionism as a path to healing Why the phrase “you are enough” is more than just a meme The neuroscience behind rejection sensitivity How the term “rejection” can be vague and misunderstood Does rejection sensitivity dysphoria only affect people with ADHD? The cost of perfectionism and rejection sensitivity on the body How perfectionism and rejection sensitivity contribute to chronic health issues Society’s role in shaping coping mechanisms and the health of our nervous systems Why trust and safety must come from the body before true acceptance is possible To learn more about Piper Rose and Shadow Play coaching, head to https://piperrosecoaching.com/ Connect with Piper on Instagram by heading to https://www.instagram.com/shadowplaycoaching/ Contact us about private Rewire Neuro-Somatic Coaching: https://brainbased-wellness.com/rewire-private-neuro-somatic-coaching/ Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the fall cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846 FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. 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