Perfection Delays Progress

Have you ever waited for the “perfect” moment to take action—only to realise it never came?
You wanted the plan to be flawless, every detail ironed out, and all the knowledge in place before taking the first step. But here’s the truth: real growth comes from real action—not perfect plans. Perfection delays progress and keeps you stuck in the planning phase instead of actually moving forward.

If I had waited until I had everything figured out:
✅ I wouldn’t have left workplaces that didn’t support my development.
✅ I wouldn’t have explored online learning and new ways to engage students.
✅ I wouldn’t have expanded beyond traditional teaching to impact education in fresh, meaningful ways.
✅ And I definitely wouldn’t be writing this today.

I’m still on the journey—challenging the norms, exploring, and experimenting—because there’s no one-size-fits-all path to success. Growth happens in the doing, not in the waiting.

The Decision That Paved My Way to New Possibilities

Looking back, one decision changed things.

During my final year of university, I faced an academic setback that could have delayed my studies. Around the same time, I discovered I had dyslexia—and suddenly, my past struggles made sense.

I had two choices: stay on the expected path or step into what truly aligned with my passion and purpose.

I chose the latter. Since then, I have:
🌱 Championed the next generation.
💡 Encouraged young people who lack confidence.
🚀 Helped others grow holistically and reach their goals.
✅ Educated diverse learners with different learning styles and needs.
✅ Mentored young people.
✅ Decided not to listen to all the noise and opinions of people who disagreed with my decision to explore new paths in education.
✅ Taken on different roles to develop my communication and other soft skills.
✅ Enrolled in and completed courses to learn and grow in specific topics and skills.
✅ Joined a few supportive communities to learn from other experts in their field and people with practical experience in areas I want to develop in.
✅ Supported STEM education and explored how it can be made more accessible and inclusive.

I know there is more learning to come. I know the list is much longer than what is here. Sadly, many have a negative perception of educators, but I truly wanted to be part of the people—alongside so many passionate educators and leaders—who represent a more positive narrative.

Of course, it’s okay to change careers—whoever you are led to be. Change careers and try things out based on what you are personally led to do, not just what’s popular. But with each role we take, let’s focus on the value we are offering, not just the financial gain—even though we know that’s important (even if many don’t like to admit it in the economy we live in today).

And the biggest lesson? Waiting for the perfect moment means waiting forever. Growth happens in the doing, not in the waiting.

Why Imperfect Action Leads to Success

🔥 Momentum Beats Planning
Planning is great, but overthinking leads to paralysis by analysis. Start moving, and clarity will follow.

💡 Mistakes Teach Faster Than Waiting
You can research for months, but nothing replaces real-world experience. The best lessons come from action. Start learning through trial and error, and you’ll grow faster than through endless preparation.

🚀 Every Expert Started as a Beginner
We admire people at their peak but forget that they, too, had messy beginnings. The difference? They started. Starting early, even with mistakes, leads to mastery over time.

How to Overcome the Fear of Imperfection

1️⃣ Take the First Step Today

• Apply for that opportunity, even if you don’t feel “ready”.
• Say yes to challenges that stretch you.
• Start that project—even if it’s not polished yet.

2️⃣ Reframe Mistakes as Lessons

• Instead of “I failed,” say, “I learned something new.”
• Keep a “Lessons Learned” journal to track growth.

3️⃣ Find an Accountability Partner

• Surround yourself with people who value progress, not perfection.
• Join a supportive community or find a mentor to keep you on track.

4️⃣ Commit to Progress Over Perfection

• Set small, achievable goals each week.
• Celebrate action, not just results.

5️⃣ Trust That God Has Already Equipped You

As a Christian, I’ve learnt that faith requires movement.

“The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” – Proverbs 29:25

Don’t let fear of others’ opinions hold you back—trust that God’s got you!

Final Thoughts: Move Now, Master Later

Success doesn’t come from waiting until you feel ready. It comes from starting before you’re ready, learning along the way, and growing in the process.

💬 What’s one imperfect action you’ve taken that led to growth? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it!

🔥 Want more inspiration on overcoming perfectionism, personal growth, STEM, education and lifestyle? Subscribe for more insights.
📌 Check the About Me page for services and collaborations.