How To Overcome Perfectionism And Start Making Progress

While striving for excellence can be admirable, focusing too intensely on perfection can hinder productivity and lead to negative consequences.

Perfectionists have a tendency to create unrealistic expectations and focus excessively on minor details. This can result in feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, and self-doubt when they fail to meet their own high standards. Perfectionists are also prone to procrastination or avoidance of tasks, as they may fear not being able to achieve their desired level of perfection.

If perfectionism is limiting your ability to achieve your goals, learn how the power of imperfect action can help you start making progress.

Progress, not perfection

Instead of focusing on getting things just right, aim to make some progress towards your goals.

Start by breaking your goals down into smaller steps. Focusing on smaller steps rather than the end goal will make it feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Over time, the small steps will add up to substantial progress. It doesn’t matter if you don’t achieve everything you set out to do. The most important thing is that you’ve made some progress towards your goals.

We become ready by taking action

You don’t need to wait for everything to be in perfect order before making a start. If you wait until you’re ready, you’ll be waiting for the rest of your life.

“CLAIMING THAT YOU NEED TO LEARN MORE OR GET ALL OF YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW CAN OFTEN BE A CRUTCH THAT PREVENTS YOU FROM MOVING FORWARD ON THE STUFF THAT ACTUALLY MATTERS.” ~ JAMES CLEAR

It’s not necessary to know all the details and steps that need to be taken upfront. You only need to know what is required for the next step. 

Once you have clarity on that, take action, even if you don’t feel ready. You can always improve in the future. If you stay stuck in the planning phase you’ll never be able to improve.

Celebrate your accomplishments

It’s important to celebrate your successes and acknowledge the progress you’ve made. This will help build momentum, increase motivation, and shift your focus onto what you have achieved rather than what you haven’t.

Create milestones for yourself and celebrate achieving them. Acknowledge any achievements, no matter how small.

Summary

Instead of focusing on perfection, strive for excellence, and aim to make some progress towards your goals. Acknowledge any achievements you make along the way and trust that you’ve done your best.