Perfectionism may seem like a motivator in the studio, but for many dancers, it becomes a roadblock—fueling burnout, self-criticism, and even disordered eating. In this episode, Rachel Fine, joined by licensed psychotherapist (and former dancer) Amy Pope-Lantham, breaks down why dancers struggle with perfectionism and how to shift from all-or-nothing thinking to balance and joy in training, nutrition, and life.

You’ll learn:

✅ What perfectionism is and why dancers are especially vulnerable

✅ How an all-or-nothing mindset impacts performance, food, and body image

✅ Strategies to identify perfectionist triggers and reframe critical thoughts

✅ The importance of focusing on progress—not just lofty end goals

✅ Practical tools to build flexibility with both food and dance training

✅ Why self-compassion is key to dismantling perfectionistic thinking

📅 Perfect for: dancers who struggle with never feeling “good enough,” parents supporting dancers navigating high expectations, and educators working to create healthier studio environments.

📖 Read the full blog: https://dancenutrition.com/managing-perfectionism/

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🔔 Subscribe on YouTube: Nutrition for Dancers

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Rachel Fine, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and Certified Counselor of Intuitive Eating works with dancers to help them build supportive relationships with both food and body. 

Disclaimer: This is produced for informational purposes only. This information is general, not specific to you. The information in this podcast does not substitute for medical advice. The viewer assumes full responsibility for consulting a qualified health professional regarding health conditions or concerns, and before starting a new diet or health program.

Timestamps ⬇️ (Skip to the section you need!)

0:00 – Introduction: Perfectionism in Dancers
Exploring the journey of recovering from perfectionism and why it’s a constant process.

0:32 – The Role of Food and Performance
How myths, antiquated ideals, and diet culture impact dancers’ eating habits and performance.

1:02 – Why Dancers Are Vulnerable to Perfectionism
Studio culture, competitive environments, and high-intensity expectations that shape perfectionist tendencies.

1:49 – Identifying Absolute Thinking
Recognizing all-or-nothing thoughts like “I must eat perfectly” or “I’ll never be happy unless I succeed.”

2:35 – Origins of Perfectionist Thoughts
How early studio experiences, teacher feedback, and peer reinforcement influence perfectionism.

3:47 – Examples of Unhelpful Thoughts
Common perfectionist beliefs about food, performance, and appearance that can harm health and growth.

4:27 – Personal Triggers and Reflection
Using self-inquiry to identify patterns, procrastination, reassurance-seeking, and over-practicing behaviors.

5:58 – Fact-Checking Your Beliefs
Assessing whether behaviors and thoughts truly support improvement or are driven by perfectionism.

6:20 – Compassionate Curiosity
How to approach yourself with the same empathy and kindness you’d show a friend or child.

6:44 – Practicing Flexibility
Exposure work with a mental health practitioner to reduce fear around foods, body image, and performance.

7:32 – The Comfort of Control
Understanding why perfectionism feels safe and how it manifests in food and dance behaviors.

8:04 – Experiencing Discomfort Purposefully
Challenging control with unmeasured portions, eating meals prepared by others, or experimenting with recipes.

9:13 – Building Tolerance to Imperfection
How exposure exercises gradually help reduce anxiety around food, performance, and studio expectations.

9:27 – Seeking Professional Support
The benefits of combining mental health therapy and dietitian guidance for overcoming perfectionism.