As therapists, we’re not usually in the business of quoting celebrities.
But once in a while, someone in the spotlight says something that lands exactly right. These aren’t just soundbites—they’re truths we see in therapy every single day.
1. “Perfection is the enemy of success.” – Mark Cuban
Mel Robbins also calls it the biggest barrier to growth.
So many clients come to us feeling stuck because they’re trying to make every step perfect.
Because perfectionism isn’t about high standards—it’s about avoidance. It’s our brain’s sneaky way of keeping us stuck while making us feel productive.
When Debora and I started our clinic, I kept saying “it’s not the right time.” We didn’t have a name. I had bills. Nothing was prepared.
But that’s when it had to happen. And it did.
Change happens when you move forward, even if it’s messy.
2. The quality of your relationships determines the quality of your life.” – Esther Perel
If a relationship is draining you, it’s costing you more than time. We help clients understand how unmet needs—and over giving—can bleed into every area of life.
Strong boundaries aren’t selfish. They’re self-respect.
Kids are brilliant at boundaries. My niece has mastered the word “no.” But as adults, we overthink it. We worry about how others will feel instead of protecting our own energy.
3. Michelle Obama**: “Am I good enough? Yes, I am.”
“We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own ‘to do’ list,” reminded me of my self-compassion journey. As therapists, we preach kindness toward others—but what about toward ourselves? Oprah says it best: “Why are we so mean to ourselves?” That question stopped me in my tracks. We talk about boundaries and burnout daily, yet forget how internal compassion fuels external resilience.
Self-compassion is a pivotal game-changer—it’s about being kind to yourself, showing forgiveness, and releasing the shame of past mistakes.
Oprah advises staying silent, focusing on self-improvement, and being your best self internally first. This creates a shield, allowing you to focus on your goals without distraction from negativity.
Self-compassion isn’t arrogance—it’s strategic mental health.
4. “The attempt to escape from pain is what creates more pain.” – Gabor Maté
Avoiding hard feelings feels like relief—until it doesn’t.
Unprocessed trauma often shows up as anxiety, burnout, addiction, or feeling stuck in repeat.
In therapy, we give clients better tools than avoidance. And it makes all the difference.
5. “The most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship is the one you have with yourself.” – Carrie Bradshaw
(Yes, really.)
Underneath anxiety, burnout, or people-pleasing is often a wounded relationship with self-worth.
Healing begins when we stop trying to earn love—and start believing we’re worthy of it.
These voices, from media to business, align with what we do every day: empower people to embrace their worth, face discomfort, and build resilience.
At Crosstown Psychology, we help people turn these insights into actual change. We are here for you every step of the way!
Navigating mental health concerns and life stressors can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Discover tailored therapy that provides actionable strategies to ease your anxiety and help you find balance. Take the first step—contact our Toronto psychology clinic today.
