“Can you assume that nothing is wrong with you?” Self-defined perfectionist, psychotherapist, writer, and former on-site therapist at Google, Katherine Morgan Schafler wants you to know that it’s ok to be a perfectionist. In her book "The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control, A Path to Peace and Power,” Katherine challenges the stigma surrounding perfectionism in our culture by defining both its healthy and unhealthy manifestations, exposes its harmful gender biases towards women, and advocates for redefining the call for “balance.”In conversation with host (and fellow perfectionist!) Erin, Katherine offers insights into perfectionism’s impact on relationships, work, and personal growth. Unveiling insights into navigating ambition, embracing fluidity, and prioritizing values aligned with current life seasons, they explore:Defining perfectionism and why it's not a flaw, but a facet of your unique brillianceThe dynamic relationship between perfectionism and mental healthHow perfectionism became a gendered term for women and a hindrance to embracing ambition and powerRedefining ‘balance’ —it's about internal well-being, not checking off tasks How to prioritize values that align most with the current season of your lifeManaging your energy vs. managing your time (read the Harvard Business Review article Katherine mentions HERE) Distinguishing between meaningful pursuits and the allure of immediate gratificationOUR GUEST: Katherine Morgan Schafler, LMHC, is a psychotherapist, writer and speaker based in New York City. Formerly an on-site therapist at Google, she earned her degrees and training at UC Berkeley and Columbia University, with post-graduate certification from the Association for Spirituality and Psychotherapy.Want more Katherine? Find her online at https://www.katherinemorganschafler.com/ and follow her on Instagram @katherinemorganschaflerWant more Hotter Than Ever? Find us and episode transcripts online at www.hotterthaneverpod.com and sign up for our mailing list! Follow us on:Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090728330453 Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an episode! We’d love to hear what you think about the show - tell us what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review on Apple Podcasts!Mentioned in this episode:Broad CollectiveLearn more about Broad Collective and our membership network for midlife women entrepreneurs at broadcollective.com. Apply to join Broad Collective at https://broad-collective-co.mn.co/landing