Perfectionism vs. Progress

When it comes to writing a book, perfectionism feels like a badge of honor. After all, you want it to be your best work — something polished, meaningful, and worth your reader’s time.

But here’s the paradox: perfectionism doesn’t make your book better. It keeps it from ever being finished.

How Perfectionism Shows Up for Authors

• Endless editing — rewriting the same paragraph 15 times.

• Over-researching — convincing yourself you need one more article, book, or case study before you’re “ready.”

• Delaying the start — telling yourself, “I’ll begin once I have the perfect outline.”

• Constant comparison — measuring your unfinished work against someone else’s published book.

Why Perfectionism is Really Fear in Disguise

Perfectionism isn’t about high standards. It’s about control. It’s about protecting yourself from the discomfort of being seen, judged, or misunderstood.

But here’s the truth: no book is ever perfect. Even the classics get critiqued. Even bestsellers have typos.

Progress is What Builds Momentum

Instead of chasing perfection, focus on steady movement:

• Write the messy draft — you can always edit later.

• Set deadlines that move you forward, even in small steps.

• Celebrate completion, not flawlessness.

Progress creates clarity. Each finished chapter teaches you more about your message, your voice, and your reader than endless polishing ever will.

The Takeaway

A book that is 80% “perfect” and finished will always have more impact than the one that’s 100% “perfect” and stuck in your head.

✨Next time perfectionism tempts you to pause, ask yourself: “Will this bring me closer to finishing — or just keep me safe from starting?”

Ready to stop dreaming about your book and start writing it? Let’s book a call and make it happen.