The Perfectionist Trap and Why It’s Keeping You Stuck
In this episode of Get Sculpted, Coach Marilynn reveals how perfectionism sabotages fitness goals and how embracing imperfect action creates progress.
Are you waiting for the "perfect time" to start your fitness journey? Perfectionism might be the invisible barrier keeping you from reaching your goals. Coach Marilynn here, and I’m sharing why pursuing perfection is fear in disguise and how it's secretly sabotaging your progress.
I know firsthand how perfectionism can paralyze you—I used to believe I needed the perfect workout plan, diet, and circumstances before I could even begin. But the truth is, perfectionism isn't about excellence at all. It's a defense mechanism against failure, judgment, and feelings of inadequacy. I'll share practical strategies to break this cycle and finally make real progress toward your fitness goals.
Here’s what I cover:
Why perfectionism is rooted in fear of failure, not excellence—and how recognizing this can free you from its grip.
The fascinating research from Dr. Brené Brown about perfectionism acting as a "20-ton shield" that blocks real growth.
How to create your own personal BAM plan (Bare Ass Minimum) to stay consistent even when life feels overwhelming.
The powerful mindset shift that transformed my own fitness journey from stress-inducing to life-changing.
Practical steps to start taking imperfect action TODAY instead of waiting for the "perfect time" that never comes.
What's one area in your life where perfectionism has been holding you back? Has the fear of not being "good enough" prevented you from taking that first step toward your fitness goals? Remember that imperfect action today will always beat perfect action someday (which usually means never).
When we let go of that fear of failure and we embrace imperfection, we actually free ourselves, which makes it easier to take that first step.
-Coach Marilynn
Today, I challenge you to pick ONE small action you've been putting off because "conditions aren't perfect." It could be prepping a healthy meal, taking a 10-minute walk, or finally reaching out for support. Do it today—not perfectly, just DONE. Share your action with us on Instagram by tagging us or sending a DM, and we'd love to cheer you on!
Connect with Get Sculpted:
Thanks for joining us on this episode of Get Sculpted! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help us reach even more women ready to cut through the noise and get the real deal on fat loss, muscle building, and what it really takes to build their 2.0 sculpted self inside and out.
This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co.
More about the Get Sculpted Podcast
Welcome to Get Sculpted, the podcast designed for women ready to transform their bodies and level up their lives with science-based strategies and actionable advice.
We dive into the essentials of fat loss, muscle building, and metabolism optimization by helping you work smarter, not harder.
This isn’t about quick fixes or fad diets; it’s about creating sustainable habits and stacking wins. We’ll help you fuel your body, strengthen your mindset, and build your 2.0 sculpted self from the inside out.
We’re your hosts, Jordanna, Marilynn, and Tijana. We have over 20 years of collective experience in the training, nutrition, and body transformation business, with over 1000 transformations and counting.
Ready to get stronger, more empowered, and embrace a healthier, more resilient you? Join us every week and start sculpting the life you deserve!
The unedited podcast transcript for this episode of the Get Sculpted podcast follows:
“I’ll start when life slows down.”
“Once things are less hectic, I’ll focus on me.”
“If I can’t do it perfectly, what’s the point?”
If that’s you, Coach Marilynn is calling it out with love and truth in this solo episode that hits home for every high-achieving woman stuck in a loop of perfection = progress.
Spoiler alert: It doesn’t.
What Perfectionism Really Is
Here’s the truth most people won’t say:Perfectionism isn’t about high standards.
It’s about fear—of failure, of judgment, of not being enough.
You’re not “being hard on yourself because you care.”
You’re avoiding action because deep down, you’re afraid it won’t be perfect.
And guess what that does?
Keeps you from taking the first step
Makes you overplan, overthink, and overanalyze
Traps you in a cycle of starting over… again and again
The Cost of Waiting for “Perfect”
In fitness (and in life), perfectionism leads to:Burnout
Frustration
Shame
Quitting before you’ve even really started
You don’t need a perfect plan, schedule, or set of circumstances.
You need a starting point—and permission to do it messy.
Progress > Perfection Every. Single. Time.
Coach Marilynn shares her own story—from being consumed by impossible standards to learning the freedom that comes with imperfect action.Once she let go of needing to get it “right,” her progress actually started.
And that same freedom is available to you.
Here’s What Will Actually Move You Forward:
Give Yourself Permission to Be ImperfectNo one starts as an expert. Mistakes = growth.
Create a B.A.M. Plan (Bare-Ass Minimum)
Busy week? Then aim for 20 minutes, not 60.
One meal prepped > none. One walk > no workout.
Small wins build real consistency.
Find Your People
Accountability changes everything.
Whether it’s a coach, community, or supportive friend—you need someone who gets it and reminds you that messy still moves the needle.
Key Reminders
Perfectionism ≠ excellence — it’s fear disguised as disciplineThere is no perfect time. Life will always be full. Start now.
Action creates clarity. You don’t need more motivation. You need momentum.
Progress always beats perfection. Every. Single. Time.
DO THIS TODAY
Pick one tiny thing you’ve been putting off because it didn’t feel “ready”:Prep one healthy meal
Go for a 10-minute walk
Message a coach or ask for support
Do it today. Not perfectly. Just done.
And if you do? DM us or tag us on Instagram. We will celebrate the heck out of you.
Leave a review or send it to a friend who needs to hear it.
Because more women need to know: it’s not about doing it flawlessly—it’s about not doing it alone.
You in?