What if trying to be perfect is the very thing making you unhappy?
In this episode, Dr. Tarryn MacCarthy speaks to high-achieving, deeply passionate healthcare professionals who feel weighed down by pressure, self-doubt, and the need to always get it right. She shares how perfectionism takes root in medicine and dentistry, why it can look like excellence on the outside, and how it quietly steals joy, freedom, and peace.
This episode is especially meaningful for high-achieving women in dentistry who carry so much and still feel like it is never enough. If success looks good on paper but does not feel good in real life, this conversation may help you see what is really standing in the way. Hit play and let this be the episode that breaks your old rules.
Show notes:
(3:03) The programming of perfectionism begins
(5:08) School teaches that perfection earns love
(9:23) Perfection spreads into every area
(11:47) Perfectionism is not a value
(13:47) Perfectionism keeps high achievers small
(21:47) Awareness creates freedom and choice
(26:19) Outro
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IMPORTANT LINKS:
Empower Her Retreat:
Dates: October 1–4, 2026
Location: Taos, New Mexico
Website: empowerherretreat.org
Connect with Dr. MacCarthy:
Email: tarryn@drtarrynmaccarthy.com
Book a call with Tarryn:
https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/happiness-and-prosperity-strategy-call
Unlock your inner peace and reclaim joy in your profession with the Nervous System Regulation For Dentists Course: https://www.thebizofhappiness.com/calm
Please join my Facebook group, Business Of Happiness Hive, so we can all take this journey to find fulfillment and happiness together. Click here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2047152905700283
Where to find me:
Website: www.thebizofhappiness.com
Facebook: facebook.com/thebusinessofhappiness
IG: @thebizofhappiness
It would mean the world to me if you subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast with your friends, co-workers, and families. This will help the trajectory of this podcast and allow others who are seeking true happiness to find the podcast.
