The Overused Mantra that Might just save Your Wellness Journey in 2026
If you have been scrolling through wellness content or listening to podcasts, you've probably seen or heard 'progress over perfection' at least a dozen times already this year. It's on quote graphics, in coaching bios and plastered on every motivation post. It can really start to feel like background noise - but what if it is exactly what we need to hear louder than ever right now?
It's repeated so much it risks becoming just empty advice. Especially when life gets messy and not everyone is starting from the same place. But, let's dive deeper into why we shouldn't just look at the phrase as fluff and should lean into the concept.
The truth is, perfectionism isn't just annoying - it's quietly destructive. Research shows that chasing "perfect" fuels anxiety, depression, burnout and even higher risks of things leading to chronic stress. It can make you experience guilt, shame and exhaustion while on the path to perfection. In our fast-paced, comparison-heavy world of 2026, where every app tracks your steps, macros, mood, sleep, etc, that pressure can turn self-care into another performance.
Progress over perfection flips the script. It gives us permission to be human. It shifts the focus from an impossible end goal to the small, brave steps that actually build momentum and protect our mental health.
No one puts on muscle over night after not having been in the gym for two years. No one loses twenty pounds in a week after not having paid attention to their diet for years. Even though we may be exposed to what appears to be "overnight success" stories as we are scrolling through social media, the person likely showed up messy and missed a workout or two or ate that slice of pizza followed by the ice cream. Just because you aren't seeing that, doesn't mean they didn't do it.
When we celebrate the small wins (like choosing a walk instead of scrolling, or simply getting out of bed on a hard day), we rewire our brains for resilience instead of shame. That mindset makes habits stick way longer than rigid "all-or-nothing" rules ever could.
Why This Matters More Than Ever in 2026
With so many of us still navigating post-burnout recovery, economic pressures, and the endless scroll of "highlight reel" lives, perfectionism can feel like the default. But leaning into progress isn't about settling—it's about thriving sustainably. It's choosing kindness toward ourselves so we have the energy to keep going.
So next time that inner critic pipes up after a less-than-perfect day, try this gentle reframe: "What did I do today that moved me forward, even a little?" Then celebrate it. Acknowledge the water you drank, the boundary you set, the breath you took. Those are the real wins.
What about you? What's one small progress moment you're proud of lately, even if it felt tiny? 💛
Your journey isn't about being perfect. It's about flourishing forward, one compassionate step at a time.
