Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Perfection is overrated. For years, I chased it. Thanks to my untreated OCD, I wanted everything to be just right — my work, my home, my relationships. But all that chasing left me drained and frustrated.
In 2025, I’m shifting my focus. Instead of aiming for flawless, I’m aiming for better. Progress, not perfection, is my mantra this year.
Why the Change?
Life is messy. Unexpected things happen. Trying to control everything is exhausting and, honestly, impossible. When I look back, the times I’ve grown the most were when I let go of perfection.
In 2024, I caught myself holding back because I was afraid of failing. I didn’t try new things or take risks because I couldn’t guarantee a perfect outcome. That fear kept me stuck.
Image by Foundry Co from Pixabay
Small Wins Matter
One thing I’ve learned: progress isn’t about big leaps. It’s about small steps forward.
Take working out, for example. I used to think if I couldn’t commit to an hour-long session, it wasn’t worth it. But last year, I started using my stationary bike desk for just 10 minutes a day. Those 10 minutes turned into 20. Then 30. Over time, I felt stronger and more confident.
It wasn’t perfect, but it worked. Little wins add up.
Perfection Kills Joy
When you’re obsessed with doing things perfectly, it’s hard to enjoy the process.
I used to bake cookies with my grandkids. Instead of laughing over spilled flour and crooked icing, I’d stress over getting them just right. The cookies didn’t matter. What mattered was the time we spent together. I missed that because I was too focused on perfection.
Not anymore. Now, I embrace the mess. Life’s sweetest moments are often imperfect.
Progress Builds Confidence
Every time I make progress, I feel proud. I see what I’m capable of, even if it’s just a tiny step forward. That confidence motivates me to keep going.
I’ve also learned to celebrate effort, not just results. Did I try? Did I show up? If the answer is yes, that’s a win.
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How I’m Embracing Progress
Here’s my plan for 2025:
- Set realistic goals. Instead of “Write a book,” I’m aiming for “Write 500 words a week.” Breaking big goals into smaller steps makes them more manageable.
- Focus on habits. Habits are the foundation of progress. I’m starting with simple ones like drinking more water and going to bed earlier.
- Learn from mistakes. Perfection makes mistakes feel like failures. Progress sees them as lessons. If I mess up, I’ll ask myself, “What can I learn from this?”
- Celebrate small wins. Whether it’s a productive morning or a kind word to a stranger, I’m acknowledging the good stuff.
Progress Over Perfection in Real Life
Here’s how this mindset is already changing my life:
- At work: I’ve stopped over-editing. I write, review, and move on. It’s freeing and saves so much time.
- At home: My house isn’t spotless, but it’s lived in and cozy. I’d rather spend time with my husband than obsess over dust.
- With myself: I’m kinder to me. I don’t beat myself up for skipped workouts or missed deadlines. Instead, I ask, “What’s next?”
A Year of Growth
Progress isn’t about where you start; it’s about where you’re going. In 2025, I’m giving myself grace to grow. Some days will be better than others. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s to keep moving forward.
If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing perfection, maybe it’s time to shift your focus too. Let’s embrace progress together. Who knows where it might take us?
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.