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Progress Over Perfection
The only key to sustainable success
We have the ability to create anything we want, but it takes time. In a society that craves instant satisfaction, we often overlook the fact that progress is a process. Just like in yoga, at first, we are wobbly but as our practice grows stronger, it becomes more effortless and we show up with renewed confidence.
Rome wasn’t built in a day and a lifetime of stiffness can’t be fixed in a single yoga practice. Each time we show up on the mat, we solidify our intentions and each time we go (even slightly) deeper into a pose, we’re making progress.
The trap of perfectionism
Perfectionism is a trap that so many of us fall into. It is deeply ingrained within in us that we have to be this perfect version of ourselves. All of the time. It’s simply not sustainable. If I had to pick, it is the one thing that fills us with self-doubt and prevents us from taking action.
Perfection is man’s ultimate illusion. It simply doesn’t exist in the universe.
We set impossibly high standards for ourselves, constantly striving to be flawless in everything we do. It often leads to stress, anxiety, and ultimately, burnout.
Shifting focus to progress
What does move the needle forward is action. Small, consistent action taken everyday, without the need to impress anyone, towards our goals is true progress. I learnt this on my yoga mat. I’ve been practicing for a number of years but yet on certain days, I find my hips stiff and my balance wavering. But as long as I can laugh at myself as I fall to the ground, pick myself again and attempt my third half moon pose, I know I will eventually get where I want to go.
Progress is about growth, learning, and improvement over time. It allows for mistakes and setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for growth instead of failure.
