Perfect Is Overrated: Why Done Is Better Than Perfect
The other day I caught myself waiting for “perfect” – and it hit me how overrated that word really is.
If you’ve ever told yourself “I’ll do it when it’s perfect,” you’re not alone.
We wear perfectionism like a badge of honor.
We say it means we have high standards. That we care.
But let’s be honest.
Most of the time, perfection isn’t about quality at all.
It’s about safety.
It’s about hiding.
It’s the most comfortable place to avoid real risk.
Because if it’s not “ready,” we’re not on the line.
---
Perfectionism Is Self-Sabotage in Disguise
It’s easy to call it “preparing,” “editing,” “waiting for the right time.”
But let’s be real: that’s often fear talking.
Fear of failing.
Fear of being judged.
Fear of not being good enough.
As a business owner and a coach, this is real life.
I hear this all the time from clients: “It’s not ready yet,” “I want it to be perfect first,” “I’m just not ready.”
We all want to get it just right before we share it with the world.
But that delay can become a cage if we’re not careful.
---
Perfect Is the Perfect Excuse to Do Nothing
Perfection is clever.
It keeps us busy tweaking instead of risking.
If I never finish, I can’t fail.
But I also can’t grow.
Growth doesn’t happen in our heads.
It happens in the doing.
In the showing up.
In sharing our real, imperfect work with the world.
---
The Truth: Done Is Better Than Perfect
Think about anything you’re proud of in your life.
Was it perfect when you started?
Probably not.
It was messy. Awkward. Uncertain.
But you did it anyway.
That’s progress.
That’s courage.
Because the path to success is paved with imperfect action.
Not endless planning.
---
What If You Stopped Waiting?
What if you let go of perfect today?
What if you trusted that ready isn’t a feeling – it’s a decision?
You could launch the offer.
Publish the post.
Have the hard conversation.
Apply for the role.
Write the first chapter.
Even if it’s not flawless.
Especially because it’s not flawless.
---
You Don’t Need Perfect. You Need Real.
Your dreams don’t need perfection.
They need you to show up.
As you are.
Right now.
Imperfect. Unpolished. Brave.
Because perfection is just procrastination wearing a fancy dress.
And you’re here to do so much more than stay stuck.
---
Reflection Questions
Where am I hiding behind perfection?
What am I afraid will happen if I just go for it?
What would I do today if I let it be imperfect?
Progress loves action.
And the world is waiting for your real – not your perfect.
If this resonated, share it with someone who needs to let go of perfect today. Or tell me in the comments: What are you choosing to finish—even if it’s imperfect?