Practice makes progress, not perfection from "summary" of Steal Like an Artist 10th Anniversary Gift Edition with a New Afterword by the Author by Austin Kleon
The idea that practice makes progress, not perfection, is a guiding principle for anyone looking to improve their craft. It's a reminder that the goal of practice is not to achieve perfection but rather to move forward, little by little, towards your goals. Perfection is an unrealistic and unattainable standard that can hold you back from making any progress at all. By focusing on progress instead, you allow yourself the space to make mistakes, learn from them, and keep moving forward.
When you embrace the idea that practice is about progress, not perfection, you free yourself from the pressure of always getting it right. You give yourself permission to experiment, to try new things, and to learn from your failures. This mindset shift can be incredibly liberating and can open up new possibilities for growth and creativity. It allows you to approach your work with a sense of curiosity and exploration rather than fear of making mistakes.
Progress is a process that takes time and effort. It requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to push through challenges and setbacks. It's about showing up every day, doing the work, and trusting that each small step you take is moving you closer to where you want to be. Progress is about being in it for the long haul, knowing that growth and improvement come from consistent practice over time.
By focusing on progress, you can measure your success not by how close you are to perfection but by how far you've come from where you started. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. It's a sign that you're moving in the right direction and that you're on the path to achieving your goals. Progress is about celebrating the journey and recognizing the effort you've put in to get to where you are today.
So, the next time you sit down to practice your craft, remember that it's not about getting it perfect. It's about making progress, one step at a time. Embrace the process, trust in your ability to improve, and keep moving forward. Practice may not make perfect, but it will make you better than you were yesterday.
