Progress Beats Perfection

Despite best efforts to follow the “perfect” diet, time management system, or morning routine, most of us fall off track.

I’ve learned is that it’s better to test and find a method, a practice, a system, or a plan that works for you personally. Most who chase something that’s “perfect” or flawless in theory but unsustainable in practice will not continue.

Even the inferior method you stick with beats the perfect one you quit.

“Progress, not perfection.”

— Robert McCall (The Equalizer)

Avoid The "As-Soon-As" Trap

“I’ll be happy as soon as…”

…I get married.

…I leave this job.

…I buy a new house.

Be careful with the "as soon as" mindset. Chasing happiness through milestones, many of which are outside our control can turn into an endless loop—each finish line quickly replaced by a new one.

The toughest part of creating any new habit, business, or skill, is ensuring you don't procrastinate moving toward our desired futures.

Why The Golden Rule Falls Short (And what To Replace It With)

The book The 5 Love Languages explains how we each express and receive love in different ways, through words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts, quality time, and physical touch. We prioritize and interpret these “languages” differently.

The biggest insight? “Treat others how they want to be treated” is often more effective than the golden rule. Not everyone values love the same way you do. Being aware of your own preferences, and the preferences of the people you care about most strengthens the connection and communication.