Embrace Progress, Not Perfection

On August 17, 2018, I stood before a room full of friends, family, and strangers at Acadiana Center for the Arts and shared a little about my journey with the Storytellers Project; part of the USA Today Network.

https://www.storytellersproject.com/talk/new-expectations/ (Watch my talk here)

I shared from my heart areas that I believed I fell short in, areas I had grown, and the person I wanted to be. It was an amazing opportunity; and it is even more amazing to watch it today.

So, since it is an ongoing theme in my life, I want to encourage you all to focus on #progress, not perfection.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Are you tired of chasing perfection?
• Are you constantly seeking flawlessness, only to feel frustrated and overwhelmed? If so, it's time to shift your mindset and embrace the power of progress!

In today's fast-paced world, we often fall into the trap of striving for perfection in every aspect of our lives. We chase after flawless performance, impeccable appearances, and faultless outcomes. But the truth is, perfection is an illusion—a moving target that can never truly be reached.

Instead of fixating on perfection, I encourage you to focus on progress. Embrace the idea that #improvement and #growth are continuous journeys, not finite destinations. Here are a few reasons why shifting your mindset can lead to greater fulfillment and #success:

1. Embracing Imperfection Fuels Innovation: Perfectionism can stifle creativity and innovation. When we let go of the need to be perfect, we allow ourselves the freedom to explore new ideas, take calculated risks, and learn from our mistakes. It's through imperfection that we uncover breakthroughs and achieve true innovation.
2. Progress Drives Results: Consistent progress, no matter how small, can yield remarkable results. By focusing on incremental improvements, you can build momentum and achieve long-term success. Remember, it's the small steps taken consistently that lead to significant achievements.
3. Failure Is a Stepping Stone: The fear of failure often accompanies the pursuit of perfection. However, failure is not the end—it's a valuable lesson on the path to success. Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn, grow, and course-correct. Each setback brings you closer to your goals if you view it as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.
4. Balance and Well-being: Chasing perfection can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. The constant pressure to meet unrealistic standards can lead to stress, burnout, and dissatisfaction. By shifting your focus to progress, you create space for balance, self-care, and a healthier mindset.

So, let's stop chasing perfection and start celebrating progress! Embrace the journey, the growth, and the lessons along the way. Remember that success is not about flawless outcomes but rather about the effort, resilience, and determination to improve every day.

Let's connect and share our experiences in embracing progress over perfection. Comment below and let me know how you celebrate progress in your personal and professional life. Together, we can create a culture that values growth and empowers one another!

#ProgressOverPerfection #EmbraceTheJourney #ContinuousGrowth #CelebrateSuccess