Do you overthink everything, aim for perfection, and still feel like it's never enough? You’re not broken—you’re protecting yourself. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith (not Alissa 😅) breaks down the perfectionism-overthinking loop that keeps so many high-achieving women stuck. She unpacks how these patterns often originate from childhood environments where safety and love were linked to performance, people-pleasing, or doing everything just right. Elyssa explains how perfectionism isn’t about high standards—it’s about emotional safety. And more importantly, she shares how to start breaking the cycle with compassion, curiosity, and small, body-based shifts that rewire your nervous system for peace, not panic. If you’ve been trying to "fix" yourself with more discipline and hustle, this episode is your permission slip to do the opposite. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why perfectionism and overthinking are often trauma responses How childhood environments shaped your relationship with achievement Why overachievers often fall into self-sabotage cycles The role of emotional safety in making meaningful change Why high standards aren't the problem—but fear is How analysis paralysis keeps you stuck in inaction Simple ways to nurture your nervous system and reduce overwhelm How to create internal safety to move forward with confidence The truth about “dysfunctional” families and why it’s not your fault Practical strategies to rewire old patterns for more freedom and peace 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Perfectionism and Overthinking 07:08 – The Impact of High Standards on Life 12:04 – Strategies for Letting Go and Moving Forward 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Feeling stuck in a cycle of self-sabotage, burnout, or overthinking? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and get to the root of what’s keeping you stuck. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge