#251 TURNing it up with Kim Long, When Perfectionism Becomes a Prison

“When your worth is tied to what you achieve, rest can feel like failure.” - Kim Long

In this episode of Wellbeing Wednesday, Gurjeet sits down with Kim Long, Registered Psychologist and founder of DOCHAS (DOCHIS) Psychological Services, to unpack the complex reality of perfectionism—especially as it shows up in high-achieving, culturally driven communities.

Together, they explore the difference between adaptive vs. maladaptive perfectionism, why unrealistic standards can quietly fuel shame and burnout, and how cultural expectations can make achievement feel like a requirement for love and belonging. Kim breaks down how perfectionism becomes harmful when self-worth is tied to performance, and why mistakes can feel like personal failures rather than learning moments.

The conversation dives into:

How to recognize unhealthy perfectionism

Why “I am” language can trigger shame

The emotional cost of constant overachievement

Practical ways to reframe self-talk and create breathing room

When self-help isn’t enough — and how therapy can support healing

Kim also shares accessible, real-world strategies for setting boundaries, creating white space in your life, and learning to sit with discomfort without self-judgment. The episode wraps with insight into DOCHAS Psychological Services, the DOCHAS Resilience Foundation, and their mission to make mental health support more accessible through community-focused programs like Hub for Hope.

If you’ve ever felt like slowing down means falling behind — this conversation is for you.

🎧 Listen now and start separating who you are from what you do.

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