Persistence Over Perfection
When we set out to learn something new, it’s tempting to want instant results. We imagine ourselves succeeding right away — looking polished, feeling confident, and making it seem effortless. But the reality is usually very different: progress looks messy, slow, and often a little frustrating. I know this firsthand. Four years ago, when I picked up a tennis racquet for the first time, I couldn’t even keep the ball inside the court. Each swing felt like a struggle, and the results were humbling. Looking back now, I can laugh at those early days — but at the time, it was a reminder of how uncomfortable it can feel to be a beginner.
What kept me going wasn’t perfection. It was persistence. Showing up again and again, even when it wasn’t pretty, even when I felt clumsy, even when it would have been easier to walk away. Over time, persistence built confidence. And confidence created growth.
Why Persistence Matters More Than Perfection
• Perfection is paralyzing.
When we expect flawless results, we stop ourselves before we even begin.
• Persistence creates momentum.
Every small effort compounds over time, leading to real progress.
• Perfection is external.
It’s about appearances. Persistence is internal—it’s about showing up for yourself.
The truth is, nobody ever achieves lasting success because they were perfect from the start. They succeed because they kept going.
Applying This Beyond the Court
Whether it’s learning a new sport, pursuing health goals, or making changes in your lifestyle, persistence is the thread that holds it together.
• You don’t have to have the “perfect” diet to eat healthier.
• You don’t need a flawless workout routine to build strength.
• You don’t need the perfect circumstances to start taking care of yourself.
What you need is persistence—the willingness to take one step, then another, even when progress feels small.
From Tennis to Life
Looking back at my own journey, what feels remarkable isn’t that I’ve reached a certain level of skill in tennis. It’s that I kept going. That lesson is one I carry into every area of life: growth isn’t about arriving at perfection; it’s about committing to persistence.
Your Turn
Where in your life have you been waiting for perfection before you begin? What would change if you chose persistence instead?
If you’re ready to move past the cycle of stopping and starting—and instead build momentum that lasts—I’d love to support you. As a health coach, I help clients shift from chasing perfection to creating consistent, sustainable habits that truly transform their health and well-being.