How many times have you put off organizing a closet, decluttering your kitchen counter, or starting a new habit because you couldn’t “do it perfectly”?

Perfection sounds admirable, like we’re aiming high. But more often than not, perfection becomes a giant roadblock. It keeps us stuck in the planning stage, worrying about doing things “the right way” instead of taking even the smallest action forward.

I see this play out regularly in my work as a professional organizer. A client wants their home to look a certain level of perfect, with matching bins and canisters, minimalistic and empty. If they can’t achieve that immediately, they put off starting at all. Meanwhile, the clutter continues piling up, stress levels rise, and the idea of getting organized feels heavier and heavier.

Here’s the truth: progress beats perfection every time.

Decluttering one drawer is better than leaving the whole dresser untouched because you’re waiting for the “perfect day,” “perfect time” or “perfect product.” Dedicating even 10 or 20 minutes to tidy-up is better than waiting for hours of free time that may never come. Even imperfect action boosts your confidence, reduces stress and creates momentum.

You don’t have to get it right; you just have to get it going!

Try this:

• Pick one small area to tackle - a single shelf, a corner of the counter.
• Set a timer for ten minutes.
• Focus only on progress, not perfection.

When perfection starts whispering in your ear, remind yourself that perfection can come later, now is the time for progress! The momentum you’ll build from making progress - even small steps - will carry you forward, making the next step that much easier.

Ready to get started but feeling overwhelmed? I’m here to help! You can send me an email or fill out the contact form. Starting is often the hardest part — but once you take that first step, you’ll be amazed at how much lighter and more manageable everything feels. Let’s make progress together!