Perfection is the enemy of progress… it’s a mantra that’s saved more fitness journeys than any superfood or supplement ever could. It’s about ditching the all-or-nothing mindset that holds so many of us back. Let’s break down why this simple idea is so powerful.
Share Image Quote:Table of Contents
Meaning
At its core, this quote means that the relentless pursuit of a flawless outcome will actually stop you from moving forward. It’s the ultimate paradox: trying to be perfect makes you fail.
Explanation
Look, I’ve seen it a thousand times. Someone decides to get fit and they go all in. They plan the perfect diet, the perfect 6-day-a-week workout plan. Then life happens. They miss one workout or eat a cookie and the whole thing collapses because it’s not “perfect” anymore. That’s the enemy. Progress isn’t about flawless execution; it’s about consistent action. A “good enough” workout you actually do is infinitely better than the “perfect” one you only think about. It’s about embracing the messy, non-linear path of real improvement. The 80% done is always better than the 100% perfect you never ship.
Quote Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Category | Personal Development (697) |
| Topics | growth (413), perfectionism (24), progress (50) |
| Literary Style | didactic (370), minimalist (442) |
| Emotion / Mood | reflective (382) |
| Overall Quote Score | 75 (124) |
Origin & Factcheck
This specific phrasing comes from Michael Matthews in his 2012 book, Thinner Leaner Stronger, published in the United States. It’s a modern take on the older, more general proverb “Perfect is the enemy of good,” which is often attributed to Voltaire. So while the core idea is ancient, Matthews expertly applied it to the fitness world.
Attribution Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Author | Michael Matthews (111) |
| Source Type | Book (4032) |
| Source/Book Name | Thinner Leaner Stronger: The Simple Science of Building the Ultimate Female Body (55) |
| Origin Timeperiod | 21st Century (1892) |
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Authenticity | Verified (4032) |
Author Bio
Michael Matthews writes straightforward, evidence-based fitness books and leads Legion Athletics, a supplement and education company. He connects with readers through the Muscle for Life podcast and hundreds of articles on training, nutrition, and healthy habits. He champions simple programming, high-protein diets, progressive overload, and sustainable fat loss. The Michael Matthews book list includes Bigger Leaner Stronger, Thinner Leaner Stronger, Muscle for Life, Beyond Bigger Leaner Stronger, and The Shredded Chef. He continues refining his methods using new research and feedback from thousands of readers and clients.
| Official Website
Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | Perfection is the enemy of progress in fitness and in life |
| Book Details | Publication Year/Date: 2012; ISBN/Unique Identifier: 9781938895308; Last edition: 2021 Revised Edition; Number of pages: 420 |
| Where is it? | Approximate page 333, Chapter 16: The Imperfect Path |