Have you ever started something new that you were super excited about, and then completely fell off the wagon?

Yep, me too.

We’ve all heard the phrase “It’s about progress, not perfection” before, but have you ever really let that sink in? Whether you’re starting a new health plan, workout routine, business venture, or any big life change, this mindset can be the difference between staying motivated or feeling defeated.

The Pressure of Perfection

Starting new habits is exciting! But let’s be real—it can also be overwhelming.

When we jump into something new, we often set super high expectations for ourselves. I know I do (ex. this blog…it’s nowhere near “perfect” but I’m showing up anyway).

We want to nail it from day one. But here’s the thing: perfection doesn’t exist.

And when we chase perfection, we set ourselves up for disappointment. One “off” day can make us feel like we’ve failed, when in reality, that’s just part of the process. I always remind my clients (and myself!)—it’s about progress, not perfection.

Small Steps Lead to Big Wins

Rather than aiming for massive, unsustainable changes, start small and celebrate the little wins. Think about it:

• Instead of saying, “I’m going to work out five days a week for an hour,” when you haven’t worked out in months, start with just one or two days. Pick something you can see yourself actually doing, like walking, see how it feels, and then add more when you’re ready.

• If you want to meal prep but feel overwhelmed, start by prepping just one meal a week instead of an entire week’s worth of food. I think a great start could be something as simple as prepping sliced bell peppers and a batch of quinoa or turkey burgers.

• Starting a business? You don’t need to launch everything at once. Take it one step at a time, learn as you go, and build momentum. Trust me…this one hits home.

Consistency Over Perfection

The key to long-term success in anything is consistency. Showing up imperfectly is always better than not showing up at all.

Life happens. Kids get sick, you get sick, there’s a family emergency or in a perfect world…a vacation. That’s okay!

Give yourself grace, adjust as needed, and remember—every little step forward is still a step in the right direction. Just start again the next day or when you’re able!

So next time you feel frustrated or impatient, take a breath and remind yourself: It’s about progress, not perfection. Because the only real failure? Is giving up completely or never even trying.

What’s one small step you’re taking this week toward your goals? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!