Are you a high achiever struggling with crippling anxiety and wondering if you’ll ever break the cycle of perpetual burnout?
In this week’s episode, I sat down with Dr. Mary Anderson, licensed psychologist and author of The Happy High Achiever. Together, we explore the challenges high achievers face, from the pressure to perform to the cycle of burnout, and share actionable tips for finding balance and reclaiming joy in the process of striving for success.
From uncovering cognitive distortions like the “troublesome trifecta” to practical strategies for self-care, Dr. Anderson provides invaluable insights to help you strive for excellence without sacrificing your well-being. Learn how gratitude, awareness of your thoughts, and small, consistent self-care practices can transform your approach to achievement—and life.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, perfectionism, or just trying to find balance in a busy world, this episode is packed with wisdom and hope.
This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why anxiety is so common among high achievers—and how to break the cycle.
- The role of cognitive distortions, like all-or-nothing thinking, in perpetuating anxiety.
- How recognizing and overcoming the “troublesome trifecta” of thought patterns can positively impact mental health.
- The importance of self-care pillars like sleep, exercise, and social connections for combating stress and burnout.
- Why striving for excellence (not perfection) allows for success without sacrificing happiness.
- How small, manageable self-care practices can lead to significant improvements.
- The surprising connection between ADHD and high achievement.
- Why self-worth should never be tied solely to external validation.
- How practicing gratitude can boost happiness and success.
- Practical strategies for cultivating awareness of your thoughts and feelings.
Key Takeaways:
- Self-awareness is the foundation of managing anxiety and stress.
- Cognitive distortions, such as should statements and jumping to conclusions, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy but can be addressed with practice and mindfulness.
- High achievers can strive for goals without sacrificing their well-being by practicing structured self-care and self-compassion.
- There’s hope for high achievers to balance ambition with happiness—and it starts with small, intentional changes.
Get more info on our podcast here and be sure to subscribe so that you never miss an episode!
What topics would you like to see us cover in upcoming episodes? —Alison
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