225. Just Say No to Perfectionism

by Julie Lefebure | Nov 18, 2025 | Podcast

Perfectionism is sneaky, isn’t it? It disguises itself as excellence, responsibility, or faithfulness—but underneath it all, it’s fear, pressure, and striving. In this week’s Just Say No episode, Julie gets real about her own battle with perfectionism and how God continues to teach her to live in grace, not performance.

Encouragement for Real Life Podcast, Episode 225, Just Say No to Perfectionism

Have you ever hesitated to start something because you couldn’t do it perfectly? Or felt like everything had to be just right before you could rest? Julie shares a behind-the-scenes story from her recent speaking events when the old pressure to “get it right” crept in—and how God gently redirected her heart from proving to trusting.

She’s still learning how to say not to perfectionism.

Through honest reflection, Scripture, and practical encouragement, this episode helps you:

Recognize perfectionism as a spiritual weight, not a badge of honor
Learn why God’s strength is revealed through weakness, not performance (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Rest in the truth that God finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6)
Identify where perfectionism began and how it impacts your peace, joy, and relationships
Replace lies of “I must be enough” with truths like “Jesus is enough”

Julie also shares a touching story about her daughter that opened her eyes to how perfectionism doesn’t just affect us—it affects those we love. You’ll walk away with three simple practices to release the pressure and embrace grace:

1️⃣ Take a “good-enough” step
2️⃣ Pray a breath prayer: Jesus, You are enough. In You, I am enough.
3️⃣ Offer a surrender statement: I offer this to You, Lord. Do what You want with it.

Friend, you don’t have to be flawless to be faithful. You are safe to be unfinished in the hands of the One who completes all things.