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: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.
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.
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3669) |
| Category | Personal Development (698) |
| Topics | growth (413), perfectionism (24), progress (50) |
| Literary Style | didactic (370), minimalist (442) |
| Emotion / Mood | reflective (382) |
| Overall Quote Score | 75 (124) |
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.
| 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 (3669) |
| Authenticity | Verified (4032) |
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
| 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 |
In the book, Matthews uses this to combat the analysis paralysis and extreme approaches that overwhelm so many people starting their fitness journey. He’s arguing against waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan, or expecting perfect adherence. His whole system is built on sustainable, consistent effort over perfection.
This isn’t just gym talk. This is a life philosophy. Here’s who needs to hear it:
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Theme | Wisdom (1754) |
| Audiences | creatives (69), leaders (2620), students (3112), trainers (231), women (74) |
| Usage Context/Scenario | coaching sessions (85), fitness psychology talks (1), motivational writing (240), self-growth workshops (9) |
Question: So, should I just not care about good form or eating well?
Answer: Not at all. It’s about standards versus expectations. Have high standards, but don’t expect perfection every single time. Aim for 90% adherence to your nutrition plan. Strive for great form, but understand it’s a skill that improves over time, not something you’re born with.
Question: How is this different from just making excuses?
Answer: Great question. An excuse is a reason to not start or to quit. This philosophy is a reason to keep going when things aren’t ideal. It’s the antidote to quitting. Excuses say “I can’t.” This mindset says “I’ll do what I can, and that’s enough to move forward.”
Question: Can you really apply this to everything in life?
Answer: Absolutely. From learning a language to building a business to maintaining relationships. The desire for perfect conditions is a dream killer. Action, even imperfect action, is what creates reality. Done is better than perfect. Every single time.
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