Progress Over Perfection
By Sarah Clark, Non-toxic Living Consultant at Better Health with Sarah
Often when people are facing a change or about to try something new, they want to be sure things are perfect.
The perfect timing, the perfect job, the perfect living situation, but striving for perfection or wanting things to be perfectly settled, can sometimes lead to inaction.
As a non-toxic living educator, I help people reduce toxins in their home environment. But sometimes, when people learn about why they should avoid certain ingredients or chemicals and how some products can cause health issues, they can become overwhelmed. And overwhelm often means they don’t take action at all.
That’s because people tend to strive for perfection instead of progress.
If they can’t choose the perfect product for their home, or remove harmful things the “right” way, then they don’t do it at all. But the definition of progress is to “move forward or onward in space or time”. So even taking a tiny step, helps move things forward.
The same can be said when it comes to business and networking. Maybe you’re afraid of reaching out to someone who you’d like to work with or have an idea for a business but aren’t sure if people will like it. But just like in non-toxic living, business networking thrives on movement, not mastery. You don’t have to have the perfect pitch, the most polished website, or the ideal offer before you start making connections. In fact, some of the most meaningful opportunities come from showing up before you feel 100% ready.
That message you’ve been hesitating to send? Send it.
That idea you've been quietly holding onto? Share it.
That person you’ve been admiring from afar? Introduce yourself.
Networking is about building relationships - not being flawless. When you take imperfect action, you show up as real, relatable, and open. That authenticity is what draws the right people in.
Progress over perfection means giving yourself permission to try, to learn, and to grow as you go. You don’t need to have it all figured out to take the next step - you just need to be willing to move forward. And whether it’s swapping out a cleaning product in your home or sending a DM to a potential collaborator, every small step counts.
So, here’s your gentle reminder: progress is powerful. Keep going.
If you're looking for a different way to network, The Prosper Network is the place for you. Even if you don’t feel “ready”—just start. Join a speed networking session, then another, and another. With practice, sharing your story will become second nature.
Sarah Clark is a non-toxic living consultant, who helps busy people ditch the overwhelm in reducing toxins in their personal care products, food & homes.
You can learn more at betterhealthwithsarah.com Follow Sarah on Instagram @betterhealthwithsarah Connect on LinkedIn @betterhealthwithsarah