Have you ever found yourself stuck rewriting the same email or redoing a project until it feels “just right”? That quiet pull toward perfection might not be about fear—it might be about trying to feel enough.

Welcome to The Rise Experience Podcast, where faith meets leadership and growth begins from within. I’m Shannon Denniston, and my heart is to walk alongside growth-minded leaders who want to rise with integrity, courage, and compassion. Together, we explore how lasting impact starts by leading ourselves well—spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.

Episode Highlights

Perfectionism often looks like striving for excellence, but underneath, it can be a quiet attempt to feel worthy or safe. I talk about how the brain reacts to success and failure, creating patterns that keep us chasing validation instead of peace. There’s also a closer look at those subtle “workarounds” we use, like procrastination or overplanning, to protect ourselves from discomfort. By learning to notice these habits, take small, direct actions, and practice self-compassion, it becomes easier to move forward without the constant pressure to be perfect.

Main Takeaways

• Perfectionism often stems from inadequacy, not fear—it’s the brain’s way of seeking safety and worth.
• The dopamine rush from success and stress response from failure keep us trapped in a reward-punishment cycle.
• “Workarounds” like procrastination or overplanning are forms of self-protection, not laziness.
• Worth is inherent and unchanging—it’s not tied to performance or productivity.
• Progress happens when we choose direct, imperfect action over endless tweaking.
• Faith reframes perfectionism: God delights in our obedience, not our performance.
• Self-compassion and vulnerability create space for real growth and connection.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:07 The Hidden Side of Perfectionism

02:35 Perfectionism and Self-Worth

04:13 Workarounds and Self-Protection

08:31 Reflecting on Perfectionism

09:36 Resetting the Mindset

11:30 Steps to Break the Loop

13:18 Embracing Presence Over Perfection

Call to Action

If this message spoke to you, share it with someone who’s caught in the pressure to be perfect. Let’s keep rising together in faith and freedom. Make sure to follow The Rise Experience Podcast so you never miss an episode.

Supporting Information

• Instagram: @risewithshannon
• Facebook: Rise Experience
• LinkedIn: Shannon Denniston
• Business: https://msha.ke/shanden
• Coaching: https://msha.ke/risewithshannon
  
  

Thank you for tuning in today. My prayer is that this episode helps lift the weight of perfection and reminds you that peace doesn’t come from getting it right — it comes from being rooted in truth. See you next time on The Rise Experience Podcast.