The Power of Progress Over Perfection: Shifting How You See Growth

Kim Ba, Wellness Coach
Apr 18
4 min read

A woman in black sits on a wooden block, gazing into a tall mirror. The setting is minimalistic, with a calm and introspective mood.

Have you ever felt stuck waiting for the “perfect” time to start something? Like you couldn’t move forward until all the stars aligned—your schedule cleared, your energy was high, and you felt 100% ready? Yeah… me too.

Whether it’s launching a business, starting a new wellness routine, or simply trying to get through the day as a single mom, perfectionism has a sneaky way of creeping in and whispering, “Not yet… you're not ready.”

But what if I told you that chasing perfection is actually blocking your growth?

It’s time to rethink what real growth looks like and focus on something way more powerful and freeing: progress over perfection.

Why Perfection is a Trap

Perfection can feel like a worthy goal, but here’s the truth—it’s an illusion. It doesn’t exist. What we call “perfect” is usually just a made-up standard that’s impossible to reach.

And when we measure ourselves against it, we end up feeling inadequate, discouraged, and exhausted.

It paralyzes action and tells you:

"Don't start until it’s flawless."
"Don’t post that unless it looks like hers."
"Don’t try unless you’re sure you won’t fail."

Sound familiar?

Perfectionism often wears the mask of ambition, but underneath it? It’s usually fear. Fear of judgment, fear of failure, and fear of not being good enough.

But growth doesn’t come from waiting for the perfect moment. It comes from moving, trying, falling, learning—and then rising again.

The Beauty of Progress

Progress means momentum. Even when it’s slow. Even when it’s messy. Especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Think about toddlers learning how to walk. They fall all the time, right? But they don’t stop. They wobble, they stumble, they get back up—and little by little, they walk. And then they run.

That’s what real growth looks like.

When we embrace progress, we allow space for:

Flexibility
Compassion
Learning through doing
Sustainable success

Instead of “I failed,” it becomes “I tried, and now I know what to tweak next time.”

Progress is the real win.

Woman in a delicate dress holding a mirror, reflecting her face adorned with a floral headband. Earthy background, serene mood.

New Section: 5 Real-Life Ways to Embrace Progress in Your Everyday Life

Sometimes the mindset shift sounds great in theory, but we need practical ways to make it stick. So here are five real-life things you can do to start choosing progress over perfection today:

1. Set “messy” goals.

Instead of “I’ll work out 5 days a week perfectly,” try “I’ll move my body in a way that feels good, 3-4 times this week.” Let the goal be flexible, not rigid.

2. Use a progress tracker (not a perfection tracker).

Have a journal or an app where you jot down what you did, not what you didn’t do. Celebrate the effort—those little wins add up fast.

3. Batch your “good enough” days.

Some days your energy will be fire. Other days, you’ll just get by. And that’s okay. Try giving yourself “good enough” days on purpose. Do the bare minimum and be proud that you still showed up.

4. Say it out loud: “I choose progress!"

Affirmations aren’t cheesy—they’re rewiring your brain. Start your morning with this reminder. Say it when you feel overwhelmed. Make it your phone lock screen if you have to.

5. Surround yourself with progress-minded people.

This one’s huge. Follow people online who talk about growth, not just goals. Join groups or communities that value authenticity over appearance. You become what you consume.

How to Shift Your Mindset

Many women feel stuck, torn between the desire to grow and the fear of not doing things “right.” But the truth is, growth is messy—and that’s okay.”

Whether it’s in parenting, personal goals, or even launching something new—this shift can be everything.

Here are a few of my go-to mindset tips:

1. Celebrate the effort.

Your progress deserves recognition—even if it’s just a small step. One step forward is still a step forward.

2. Remember: growth isn’t linear.

You will have ups and downs. Backslides happen. Give yourself grace in those moments—they’re part of the journey.

3. Let go of comparison.

Your journey is yours. Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel. Especially on social media.

4. Create space for reflection.

Journaling, quiet walks, or voice memos can help you track how far you’ve come. You’ll be amazed at your own resilience.

Why This Matters for Your Wellness

Chronic perfectionism is exhausting! It leads to burnout, stress, and a constant feeling of “never enough.” And if you’re navigating single parenting, managing a business, or trying to find balance in a chaotic season, the pressure to be perfect can steal your joy.

When you shift to progress over perfection, you: