Don’t Let Perfect Be The Enemy Of Good
I was in the PT clinic on Monday morning, folding some towels. Minding my own business, easing into the week.
Until one of my coworkers - AJ, a retired NFL PT and usually my biggest hype-woman - shouted , “WHY ARE YOU FOLDING LIKE THAT?!” THAT’S TRASH.”
I was devastated but also inspired.
AJ’s quip was the perfect example of a concept I share with my online fitness clients -
Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.
A short workout is 100% better than no workout.
I’ll be the first to admit I suck at folding towels. If I worried about folding perfectly, it’d never get done.
But you know what?
A subpar stack of folded towels is 100% better than letting them sit there in the dryer.
You’ll have more success with your fitness if you take the same approach!
A client told me last week, “I don’t have time to get in the full workout, and I’m not as strong as I used to be, so I feel like it’s doing more harm than good.”
At first I said, “😨😨😨”
Then I told him, “It might feel lame to do a light 20 minute workout, but it’s 100% much better than nothing.”
Logically, you know this. But it’s so easy to talk yourself out of doing something if it doesn’t live up to your expectations.
Do the bare minimum.
If you’re not feeling it this week, do the bare minimum:
✅Get the 20 minute workout done
✅Go for a 10 minute walk
✅Drink a protein shake instead of a soda in between meals
✅Go to bed 20 minutes earlier
The small, seemingly inconsequential decisions you make compound over time - for better or worse.
Do the work.
Don’t be afraid of imperfect action. It always trumps using perfectionism as an excuse to avoid doing the work.
In other words, just fold those dang towels.
Best,
John
P.S. A plate of protein pancakes from last week. Extra sugar-free syrup and blueberries on the side.
They may not be perfect, but they’re so good. It’s hard to have a bad day when it starts with a high protein, high fiber, delicious meal.
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