Have you heard this statement before? “Perfectionism is the enemy of progress.”
So many times in life, we find ourselves waiting for the perfect time. And when it never comes (because there’s no such thing), we end up regretting the fact that we wasted the time that we had.
When it comes to our fitness, we talk ourselves into believing that having the body and health that we want means we have to work out 2 hours a day, 6 days a week. Since we don’t have time for that (who does?), we end up doing nothing.
Oftentimes, this all-or-nothing, vicious cycle of inaction and regret is rooted in a limiting belief — something along the lines of:
“I’m not good enough …”
“I don’t deserve to take the time to care for myself …”
“I’ve started workout plans before, but I always end up quitting because I don’t have enough time …”
And lo and behold, our outcomes — no progress, piling on more unwanted pounds, and feeling ashamed about it — end up confirming that limiting belief. I’ve seen it so many times …
That’s why the concept of imperfect action is so powerful. Just start with one 10-minute workout. Heck, even 10 push-ups or sit-ups will do the trick. Start by adding vegetables to 1 meal.
And just keep making new decisions that will improve your outcomes and change your beliefs.
Stop trying to be perfect. Being imperfect and taking action is the way to create motivation and momentum. Not the other way around.
