Note #24

Progress > Perfection

I’ve found myself doing a lot of reflection this month. For work. For my home. For my personal life. For my finances. For this newsletter. And all I’ve felt is gratitude and appreciation to myself.

From work to home to my personal life, this year, I went out of my comfort zone a lot and did some crazy courageous things. The one thing I’m particularly grateful for is the gift of self-reflection and writing. My ability to introspect has not only helped me become better, but it helped me see how much progress I have made and where to make changes when I wasn’t being true to myself.

Here’s a note from my journal in February when I started a new role in tech. After 8 long years of working outside tech, I just wanted to belong again, so I had to make some adjustments).

I’ve sure done better.

You might be wondering, how does this concern you?

For many, December is that time to reflect on the year and how it has been. For some, that goes well and for some it doesn’t. Fundamentally, something I’ve learned is the need to approach new beginnings with a different mindset. This tweet from 2 years ago still rings so true.

Although, I do think there's something about new chances that comes with the new year. I find that sometimes we place so much emphasis on a destination - a “new” year, a “new” day, a “new” job, a “new” boo🤣

Been there. Done that.

In reality, any new day, week, month, or year is as new as you make it. It starts and ends with you and your actions which ultimately should be about making progress no matter how little.

As we wrap up the year, I’ve curated some resources to help you work on becoming better for you first and not or anyone else/social media validation.

• Feel like you don’t know what you’re doing with your life? Read this.

• Not sure how to reflect or set goals for the next year? This worksheet curated by the team at my social enterprise is a solid. I’ve enjoyed using it to reflect because it’s quite practical and well-rounded. Grab a copy here.

• Wondering how to consistently choose progress over perfection? Read this.

Today’s note is simple, when you find yourself caving into the pressure of over-achievement, remember Winston Churchill’s words:

“Perfection is the enemy of progress.”

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P.S: I’ll send one last newsletter (Note #25) before the year runs out, but in January, I’ll be taking some time off from posting newsletters. During this time, you’ll receive no new posts, but I truly hope my past notes continue to resonate with you. The time off will help me recharge and write better stuff that’ll inspire you for the rest of the year. See you soon!