3 Things You Need for Sustainable Personal Development
Feb 23, 2022Have you ever heard the expression “done is better than perfect”?
It’s pretty self-explanatory, but it basically means that it’s more important to get stuff done in life — even if it’s messy or not 100% right — than it is to be paralyzed by the notion of perfection.
Let me tell you, for those of us who are type-A perfectionists (like me) this is not an easy idea to embrace. But after some time, I’ve realized it has the potential to make you more productive and accomplished — with the right knowledge, tools, and support on your side, of course.
When you have a sustainable system in place for how you approach personal development, it stops feeling like an uphill climb.
My experience as a wellness researcher + educator has taught me that a truly sustainable path towards self-improvement requires the following 3 things:
1. Clarity. If you don’t know exactly what you want to achieve and why, it’s difficult to stay motivated. Make sure you have a “big why” that you feel connected to behind everything you strive towards.
2. Direction. Planning and strategizing are effective because they give you direction. You’re never lost wondering what to do — your next step is always right there. Without that point of reference, it’s easy to lose sight of what has to happen next.
3. Support. Support looks different for everyone. Some people want words of encouragement, others require tough love and accountability. Either way, having somebody you can turn to when things feel difficult can be the difference between giving up on your goal or achieving it.
Above all else, remember that when it comes to growing as a person and achieving your goals, sustainable beats perfect every time.