446: Is Perfectionism Good or Bad? // Katherine Morgan Schafler

446: Is Perfectionism Good or Bad? // Katherine Morgan Schafler

Author: Cloud10 September 8, 2025 Duration: 37:19
Have you ever been told that your perfectionism is a problem? Maybe you’ve felt like it’s the reason you’re stressed, restless, or never satisfied with yourself. But what if perfectionism isn’t actually the enemy? What if it’s a form of power that, when channeled with compassion, can actually bring you more joy and meaning? In this episode, I’m joined by Katherine Morgan Schafler, a psychotherapist and the author of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control. Katherine offers a refreshing perspective: perfectionism doesn’t need to be “fixed” or hidden—it can be embraced and redirected in healthier, more adaptive ways. In this conversation, you’ll learn: 💜 The hidden difference between an idealist and a perfectionist—and why the distinction matters for how you show up in your daily life. 💜 A simple, practical exercise to clarify your values in this season of life, and why naming the values you won’t focus on is just as important 💜 Why so many “helpful” mantras for moms miss the mark—and how to reframe them in a way that feels empowering instead of dismissive. Whether you’ve always identified as a perfectionist or you’re simply curious about new ways to frame personal growth, Katherine’s insights will encourage you to rethink your tendencies with kindness and clarity. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: You're invited to my FREE Masterclass How to Lighten the Mental Load of Motherhood on September 10, 12, or 16. Using the Self-Assured Motherhood framework (the SAM6) I'll give you tools and perspective shifts to help you carry the load with more steadiness, clarity, and peace.   🎁 Plus, we’ll be giving away one free Skylight Calendar at each class to someone in attendance! You can sign up ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! Related Episodes: 267: How to Stop Procrastinating in the New Year // Monica Packer 413: What to Do When You’re Juggling Too Much // Amy Wilson 421: Overwhelmed with Housework? You’re not alone. // KC Davis Episode Sponsors: Skylight: Go to skylightcal.com/TAKEAWAYS for $30 off your 15 inch Calendar. Skylight also offers a guarantee—if in 120 days you are not 100% thrilled with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund. No questions asked. Factor: Eat smart at FactorMeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50% off your first box, plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year. (Offer only valid for new Factor customers with code and qualifying auto-renewing subscription purchase.) Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Motherhood often feels like a constant juggling act, leaving little time for lengthy advice or complicated strategies. That’s the exact gap that 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms fills. Each episode is built on a simple, powerful premise: delivering three practical, doable takeaways within a half-hour. Host Rachel Nielson, who brings her perspective as a mother, teacher, and writer, understands that a busy parent’s brain is already full. She curates conversations and shares insights that cut straight to what’s useful, focusing on real-world application over theory. You’ll hear discussions rooted in the daily realities of family life, covering everything from educational activities for kids and navigating family dynamics to personal well-being amidst the beautiful chaos. This isn’t about adding more to your to-do list, but about finding smarter, more peaceful ways to manage what’s already there. The tone is consistently encouraging, aiming to replace overwhelm with a sense of capability and even magic. Tuning into this podcast feels like a coffee chat with a knowledgeable friend who leaves you with clear, actionable steps-not just more noise. It’s a resource for any mom looking to gather concrete ideas for parenting, personal growth, and creating a more harmonious home, all within the span of a daily commute or a folded laundry pile.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms
Podcast Episodes
435: How to Make Decisions Without Overthinking // Kendra Adachi [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:34
If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by a decision–spinning in circles, overanalyzing every possible outcome, and feeling like you can’t move forward until you get it just right–I'm here to tell you that the struggle is SO real…
434: How to Actually Enjoy Summer as a Mom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:06
Summer can be such a gift—but it can also feel like a lot. Whether you're a few days in or several weeks deep, this season tends to stretch us in new ways as moms. We want to make memories, stay present, and still meet o…
431: 3 Road Trip Hacks for Traveling with Kids // Brittney Hanks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:49
Summer is almost here… which means it’s road trip season! If you’re gearing up for some long drives with your kids in tow, this episode is packed with practical tips to help make those hours in the car smoother, more fun…
430: Plan Meaningful Family Travel Without the Stress // Meggie Busath [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:33
What if your next family trip wasn’t about packing in more—but about slowing down, connecting, and actually enjoying your time together? This week, I'm joined by family travel expert Meggie Busath, who shares practical w…
429: How Ordinary Moms Can Make a Difference // Sharon McMahon [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:22
If you’ve ever felt like the problems of the world are too big, and your influence is too small to matter, this conversation with Sharon McMahon will help you realize how powerful even just your small actions can be. Sha…
427: A Simple Framework for a "Balanced" Summer // Jenny Layton [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:18
As moms, summer can feel like both a dream and a juggling act. We want to make magical memories for our families… but we also crave order, rest, and a little bit of time for ourselves. So, how do we actually find balance…