Continuous Improvement & Goals
July 3, 2024
“Strive for continuous improvement, instead of perfection.” – Kim Collins
Have you ever wondered why exercise programs don’t promise a 2-pound weight loss per month, or why cars don’t advertise 3 more miles per gallon than their predecessors? It’s because these incremental improvements, while significant, often go unnoticed in a world obsessed with big, immediate achievements.
Many goals resemble pole vaulting—you clear the bar, you succeed. Even if you’re five feet over the bar, you’ve achieved your goal. But if you’re beneath it, it can feel like failure. However, partial success isn’t failure; in fact, it often leads to more substantial growth than hitting the mark on your first try. Despite this natural feeling, there are ways to shift your mindset and stay on track toward your objectives.
Avoid the temptation to mimic others’ ambitious goals or inflate your own. By doing so, you risk undermining smaller progress. Moreover, if setbacks occur due to life’s unpredictability, feelings of shame and guilt can hinder your motivation to keep pushing forward.
Instead of committing to losing 50 pounds by summer, consider aiming for 2-3 pounds a month. Rather than reading a book a week, set a goal of 10 pages a day.
👉 Focus on the process and progress because it’s within your control. The results will follow.
👉 Taking action leads to more action.
👉 Embrace micro-goals and consistent habits.
👉 Strive for perfect progress, not perfect results.
👉 Start from where you are, not where you wish to be.
By adopting these principles, you cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement, fostering sustainable growth and resilience in achieving your goals.