Anna Kendrick has long been celebrated for her wit, charm, and that signature self-deprecating humor that makes her feel relatable to millions. From her breakout role in Up in the Air to leading the Pitch Perfect franchise as Beca Mitchell, Kendrick has carved out a space in Hollywood as the “girl next door” with a quirky edge. Yet behind the smiles and clever comebacks, the actress reveals a quieter, more personal journey.
In a candid new interview, Kendrick spoke openly about what she describes as the “three silent struggles” that have shaped her life: anxiety, people-pleasing, and perfectionism. She also shared how she dedicates two hours a week to therapy exercises aimed at “unlearning perfection.”
Anxiety That Never Fully Disappeared
Kendrick’s anxiety began in her teenage years while performing on Broadway in High Society, a role that earned her a Tony nomination at just 12. “People saw a confident kid,” she said, “but I was terrified all the time. I thought if I didn’t get it perfect, I’d ruin everything.” She notes that anxiety never truly vanished; it simply evolved. Even amid Hollywood success, she recalls moments of intense panic, including attacks in trailers before talk shows, all while presenting a composed exterior.
The People-Pleasing Trap
Another challenge Kendrick highlighted is her tendency to seek approval. “I spent so much of my life trying to be likable — not just on screen, but in every interaction,” she explained. This need for affirmation often left her emotionally drained, saying yes to projects, friendships, and obligations until she lost sight of her own needs. “You end up being everyone’s emotional caretaker except your own,” she admitted.
Perfectionism — and the Work of Letting Go
Kendrick credits therapy with helping her confront her perfectionism. “My therapist once told me, ‘You’re trying to win at being human,’” she said. She now practices embracing imperfection through exercises like intentionally leaving tasks unfinished or allowing herself to make mistakes without apology. These small actions have helped her recognize that being loved and being perfect are not the same.
Through this process, Kendrick says she’s found a new kind of peace — one not tied to applause or productivity. “I still love what I do,” she said, “but I don’t want to perform being happy anymore. I just want to be real.”
Looking ahead, Kendrick is focused on directing and producing stories that reflect authentic emotional experiences. “I think a lot of women relate to that idea of smiling through panic,” she said. “I want to make things that say, ‘You’re not alone in that.’”
Reflecting on her younger self, Kendrick offered this advice: “You can mess up and still be enough. You don’t have to earn rest or peace. You already deserve it.”
For Anna Kendrick, the bravest performance isn’t on stage or screen — it’s the quiet, ongoing work of living authentically.
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