In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with licensed therapist, bestselling author, and mental health educator Kati Morton to explore why so many of us continue repeating behaviors we know no longer serve us—from perfectionism and overworking to people-pleasing, burnout, and self-abandonment.

Drawing from her new book, Why Do I Keep Doing This?, Kati explains how the habits that keep us stuck often began as protective adaptations developed in childhood. Together, John and Kati unpack how our early experiences shape the "blueprints" we carry into adulthood, influencing our relationships, careers, self-worth, and sense of identity.

Their conversation explores why achievement can become a substitute for belonging, how fear quietly drives many of our decisions, and why lasting change begins not with self-judgment but with curiosity. Along the way, they discuss anti-mattering, burnout, fawning, autonomy, self-discrepancy, and the power of micro-choices to reshape our lives.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why perfectionism, overworking, and burnout are often fear-based protective behaviors
• How childhood experiences create the relationship blueprints that shape adult life
• The hidden connection between people-pleasing, fawning, and self-abandonment
• Why so many high achievers struggle with feeling unseen despite their success
• How anti-mattering contributes to loneliness, disengagement, depression, and burnout
• The difference between living intentionally and living on autopilot
• Why small, consistent micro-choices often create more lasting change than dramatic life overhauls
• How journaling and self-reflection help uncover the beliefs driving repeated patterns
• Practical ways to reconnect with yourself and build a life that aligns with your values

This conversation offers a compassionate roadmap for understanding the habits that once protected us, while learning how to move forward with greater self-awareness, authenticity, and intention.

Passion Struck is the #1 Health and Wellness Podcast and personal growth podcast dedicated to helping people live intentionally, unlock human potential, and create lives filled with meaning, purpose, and mattering.

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Full Show Notes Here: https://passionstruck.com/why-do-i-keep-doing-this-kati-morton/

Download the Digital Workbook: https://www.theignitedlife.net/p/high-achievers-repeat-safe-patterns

Learn more about Kati Morton:

• Website: https://katimorton.com
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
• Podcast: Ask Kati Anything

Connect with John

• Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/
• Book John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/
• Keynotes, books, podcast, and resources: https://linktr.ee/John_R_Miles
• Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/
• Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/

Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it.

Disclaimer

The Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice.