What happens when the pressure to be perfect is inherited?

In this episode of Success Reimagined with Amna Shabbir, MD, we sit down with Ghalia Aamer to unpack the invisible weight of perfectionism faced by many young adults and especially daughters of immigrants.

At just 23, Ghalia has accomplished what most people only dream of. But behind her accolades lies a deep reckoning with cultural expectations, toxic achievement cycles, and the constant fear of not doing “enough.” This conversation is a must-listen for high-achieving women, first-gen professionals, and anyone navigating self-worth in a hyper-competitive world.

Topics Covered:

• The pressure to be perfect as a daughter of immigrants
• How to balance ambition with wellbeing in high-achieving environments
• The connection between perfectionism and public speaking anxiety
• Reframing failure and letting go of toxic achievement
• Why presence—not productivity—is the real marker of success

👤 About Ghalia:

Ghalia Aamer is a multi-time TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and youth empowerment advocate. She is the founder of TalkMaze, a global platform that helps students and professionals build confidence through public speaking and debate. Ghalia launched her first business at just 13 years old and has since been recognized as one of Alberta’s Top 30 Under 30 and a Princess Diana Award recipient.

Currently pursuing her J.D. at Columbia Law School, Ghalia’s mission is to amplify underrepresented voices and challenge perfectionism—especially among first-generation women of color. Her story bridges ambition with advocacy, showing that success is not about being flawless, but about being fearlessly yourself.

🔗Connect with Ghalia:
TalkMaze Website: https://talkmaze.com/about-us/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghaliaaamer/

🎙About the Host:

Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, NBC-HWC, CPC, is a Dual board-certified physician, TEDx Speaker, with advanced training in integrative well-being, performance, and leadership development. She speaks and consults on perfectionism, sustainable success, and the well-being of high achievers.

This episode is part of her special book-writing project on unmasking perfectionism.

🔗Connect with Dr. Shabbir:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amnashabbir/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amna-shabbir-md/
🌍 Book Her to Speak: https://www.dramnashabbir.com/Speaking

❌ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. The views expressed are personal and do not reflect those of any employer or institution.

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