Even though you would have made progress, but because the end result wasn’t up to your (or someone else’s standards), you might feel like you didn’t do enough, a failure, or paralyzed by self-doubt. 2) Perfectionism can take away the joy in reaching your goal.

Nearly all of us have experienced it in some form or another—whether it’s a trait that defines our behavior, one that shows up from time to time, or is something experienced second-hand through those close to us. The more perfect a thing is, the more susceptible to good and bad treatment it is ~ Dante Alighieri This mantra is about taking consistent steps or actions. Not expecting the road to be free of bumps, bruises, or detours. Not waiting until everything is perfect.

Why progress over perfection matters

While a strive for perfection might feel like the right way to go, you’re actually more likely to achieve your goals by building on progress instead of giving up when things don’t seem ideal.

In addition to building trust, credibility, and reliability, prioritizing consistency can also help leaders foster a culture of excellence. When leaders model consistent behavior, they set the standard for the entire organization. This can inspire team members to strive for consistency in their own work and create a culture of accountability and high performance. Not long ago, I came across a job ad that was looking to hire someone who was an “absolute perfectionist.”

Are you a perfectionist?

Adopting a growth mindset also helps leaders develop a sense of purpose and meaning in their work. When leaders are focused on growth, they are not just working to achieve a particular goal or outcome. They are on a journey of continual self-improvement and development, which can be very rewarding and fulfilling. But failure is an inevitable part of trying. It’s a stepping-stone to growth. If we try at anything, of course we are going to make mistakes. Renowned filmmaker Charlie Kauffman views failure differently. “Failure is a badge of honour,” he writes. “It means you risked failure.” You’re in an art class working on a painting. You find yourself constantly comparing your art to your friend, who has made something stunning on her canvas. You wish yours was as good. Progress requires a willingness to take calculated risks and be proactive in driving change. Leaders who prioritize progress must be willing to experiment, try new approaches, and pivot when necessary. They must also be willing to invest the time and resources necessary to achieve meaningful change, even if it requires taking a long-term perspective.