The Perfectionism Trap

Perfectionism can feel safe — even responsible — but for many women lawyers, it quietly becomes a career-limiting habit.

In this episode of The Pathway to Partnership Podcast, Cecilia Poullain explores how perfectionism shows up every day in law firms: not speaking up in meetings, staying silent on client calls, avoiding visibility, or holding back from leadership opportunities because you’re not 100% sure — and terrified of making a mistake.

Through a real coaching story, Cecilia unpacks what’s really behind this hesitation: fear of shame, not incompetence. She explains why the consequences of “getting it wrong” are often far smaller than we imagine — and how staying silent can be far riskier in the long run.

You’ll learn:

• Why perfectionism keeps women lawyers stuck — even as they approach partnership
• The crucial difference between perfectionism and excellence
• Practical tools to help you speak up with more confidence, including the little gap, the risk coin, and taking calibrated risks
• How to build confidence in a way that works for you — especially if “fake it till you make it” doesn’t
• How small, intentional steps can help you move from excellent lawyer to visible leader

This episode is an invitation to notice the moments when perfectionism is making decisions for you — and to start choosing excellence instead.

If you’re a woman lawyer aiming for partnership and finding yourself holding back, this conversation is for you.

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