Lean Out Podcast: Perfectionism with Amna Shabbir

It might seem like a virtuous flaw. Being “perfect” is lauded by society.

But perfectionism is a farce.

And it really holds people back.

What are you missing when you succumb to perfectionism?

Progress. Connection. Learning. Maybe even love (especially for yourself).

My guest on the Lean Out Podcast today admits that she has a lifelong struggle with perfectionism. So much so that she even gave a powerful TEDx talk on the subject.

Dr. Amna Shabbir is a speaker, podcaster, and dual board-certified physician with advanced training in integrative well-being, performance, and leadership development. She is the Founder and CEO of the Early Career Physicians Institute® and Success Curated, and she is the host of the podcast Success Reimagined with Amna Shabbir, MD. Amna speaks and consults on perfectionism, sustainable success, and the well-being of high achievers. Beyond her professional roles, she embraces her most cherished title—Super Mom to two young girls.

In our conversation, Amna shares her experiences with perfectionism, something she says holds sufferers back in all areas of their lives. She shares vulnerable moments of the realization that she needed to make a change, and how she’s still “releasing” herself from the clutches of perfectionism.

Amna is in a transition from clinical work to entrepreneurship, but she hasn’t left medicine altogether. She’s currently experimenting with her work-life balance. It’s a very imperfect, messy journey, and she’s embracing it! Side note: we talk about books and TEDx talks and what it’s like to do them… and how doing one shouldn’t be about checking a box but about the passion to share your message.

I hope you enjoy this conversation! Tell me… What would it look like for you if you could let life happen, let it slowly unfold instead of force it into some perfect-looking mold?

Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below!