Why Perfection Is Holding You Back and How to Celebrate Progress Instead

Perfection. It’s the impossible standard so many of us hold ourselves to, especially as moms.

You tell yourself:

• “If I can just get everything right, then I’ll be enough.”

• “If I don’t give 100%, I’m failing.”

But let’s be real, perfection is exhausting, unattainable, and keeps you stuck. Every time you focus on being perfect, you overlook the small wins that actually matter.

What if you let go of perfection and started celebrating progress instead? In this blog, we’ll explore why progress is the key to lasting growth and how to start recognizing the little wins that make a big difference.

1. Perfection Keeps You Stuck

Perfection sounds like a worthy goal, but in reality, it’s a trap. It convinces you that nothing you do is ever enough. You could finish a project, cook dinner, and make it to every appointment, but that one thing you didn’t check off? That’s what perfection will make you focus on.

Over time, this mindset creates burnout. You start to feel like no matter how hard you work, you’ll never measure up. And the worst part? Perfection keeps you from even starting because the fear of not doing it “right” feels paralyzing.

2. Why Progress Matters More

Progress is where the magic happens. It’s about taking small steps every day that bring you closer to your goals without worrying about doing it perfectly.

Think about it: when your kids were learning to walk, did you expect them to get it right the first time? Of course not! You celebrated every wobble, every step, every attempt. Why don’t we show ourselves that same grace?

Progress means celebrating effort, not results. It means valuing the journey instead of obsessing over the destination.

3. How to Track Your Wins

Start a "wins tracker." Each day, write down one small win, no matter how insignificant it might seem. For example:

• “I made time to sit down and eat lunch today.”

• “I said no to an extra task I didn’t have the capacity for.”

• “I spent five minutes journaling this morning.”

Over time, these small wins add up. They remind you that you’re making progress, even when it feels slow.

Perfection is the thief of joy, but progress is what will set you free.

Take one step today: celebrate one thing you did right. Write it down, own it, and remind yourself that you’re enough as you are.

Want more support in letting go of perfection? Join the Unstoppable Mom List and get weekly tips to help you celebrate progress and create the life you deserve.