Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a transformative conversation I had with Nanci Reed, a sacred embodiment coach and fellow author of “Happily Ever Now: A Gentle Guide for Overcoming the Paralysis of Perfectionism by Embracing Our Innate Guidance.” This blog post is a reflection of our heart-to-heart discussion about overcoming perfectionism, embracing our true selves, and finding happiness in the here and now.

The Empath’s Struggle: Nanci’s Early Years

Nanci’s story begins in her childhood, where she first recognized her empathic abilities. Like many empaths, she felt the need to suppress her gifts to fit into a world that often misunderstands sensitivity. Nancy’s early life was marked by a deep-seated perfectionism, a desire to shield her true self from judgment and criticism. This struggle is one that resonates with many of us, as we navigate the pressures of societal expectations.

In a life-altering moment, Nanci faced a near-death experience during a car accident. This harrowing event brought about a detachment from life, accompanied by intense physical and emotional pain. It was through writing that Nanci found solace, a peaceful presence that allowed her to process her trauma and embark on a journey of healing. Writing became her sanctuary, a place where she could be present with her pain and transform it into something beautiful.

From Pilates Instructor to Sacred Embodiment Coach

Nanci’s career path took a significant turn when she transitioned from training as a pilates instructor to embracing her passion for writing and coaching. Her mother introduced her to the spiritual teachings of “A Course in Miracles,” which further influenced her path. It was her mentor, Ken Warnick, who recognized the depth of Nanci’s writing and encouraged her to delve into her inner voice, without leaning on external spiritual texts. This mentorship was a cornerstone in Nanci’s development, shaping her message of kindness and curiosity.

Our conversation delved into the heart of Nanci’s book title, “Happily Ever Now.” The concept challenges the notion that happiness is contingent on perfection or future achievements. Nanci shared a poignant story about a coaching client that inspired the book’s title, underscoring the importance of finding joy in the present moment, rather than postponing happiness for a future that aligns with our ideals of perfection.

The Impact of Perfectionism on Women

We discussed the pervasive impact of perfectionism, particularly on women, who often postpone their happiness for the elusive “after” – after losing weight, after getting the perfect job, after finding the right partner. Nanci pointed out how perfectionism holds us back, trapping us in a cycle of never feeling truly content. It’s a barrier to experiencing life’s fullness, and it’s crucial to break free from its grasp.

Nanci shared her strategies for overcoming perfectionism, emphasizing self-forgiveness and approaching life with kindness and curiosity. She candidly admitted that perfectionism still triggers her daily, but her response has shifted. Now, she chooses to view it through a lighter lens, accepting it as part of the human experience.

Awareness and Acceptance: The First Steps to Change

As we wrapped up our conversation, I reflected on the importance of awareness and acceptance in the battle against perfectionism. Acknowledging our perfectionist tendencies is the first step toward change. I expressed my heartfelt gratitude for Nanci’s vulnerability and wisdom, and she reciprocated with joy for our meaningful exchange.

Our discussion was more than just an exchange of ideas; it was a deep dive into the essence of what it means to live authentically. Nanci’s personal journey, her battle with perfectionism, and her ultimate embrace of imperfection and self-compassion offer a beacon of hope for all of us struggling with similar issues. Through our shared insights, we hope to inspire you to navigate the complexities of perfectionism and discover the happiness that exists in the present moment.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. May we all find the courage to let go of perfection and embrace the beautifully imperfect beings we truly are.