Why Done Beats Perfect in Planning: The Ultimate Guide
Did you know nearly 80% of people struggle with perfectionism? Like to the point that it keeps them from taking action? For moms especially, chasing a perfect plan can leave you with color-coded lists and Pinterest-worthy layouts… but not much actual progress. I continue to struggle with this. “Pretty planning” is therapeutic for me, but it isn’t always functional. Sometimes I create perfectly curated plans and spreads, but that doesn’t translate to real life, and it leaves me floundering during the week. It’s exhausting and defeating.
But here’s the truth (it’s an Imperfectly Planned mantra and I repeat it to myself an insane amount): Done beats perfect. Every time.
When we let go of the pressure to get it perfect, we free up time, energy, and headspace to actually do the things that matter most. This guide will walk you through why perfectionism gets in the way, how to shift your mindset, and the practical planning tools that help busy moms move forward—without the guilt.
1. Understanding Perfectionism in Planning
Planning is supposed to help us, not hold us back. But when perfectionism sneaks in, it turns planning into procrastination.
How perfectionism shows up in planning:
Procrastination – Putting things off because you’re worried they won’t be perfect.
Imposter syndrome – Feeling like you’re never good enough, even when you’re doing plenty.
Burnout – Constant pressure to keep up leaves you exhausted before you even begin.
👉 The fix? Focus on progress over perfection.
2. Why Taking Action Matters More Than Perfect Plans
Action is the solution to feeling stuck. When you stop waiting for the perfect plan and just take the next step, you build momentum.
Benefits of “done over perfect”:
Small wins stack up – Crossing off any task gives you energy for the next.
Mistakes become lessons – You learn faster by doing, not waiting.
Productivity increases – Less overthinking = more energy for action.
Done doesn’t mean sloppy. It means realistic, doable, and moving forward.
3. Simple Strategies to Practice “Done Beats Perfect”
If you want to get rid of the pressure and still stay organized, try these super simple strategies:
Set time limits – Give yourself 15 minutes to do a task and consider it a success.
Use simple tools – Skip the complicated, convoluted systems. A one-page digital planner or weekly dashboard is enough on most days.
Shift your mindset – Think of each plan as good enough.
4. Real-Life Proof That Done > Perfect
Plenty of success stories prove this point:
Startups launched with imperfect apps and products—but grew by learning fast.
Moms (like us!) who share that their “good enough” systems are what actually keep the family running. I saw this TikTok the other day of a mom asking how in the world people are doing it…just read through the comments. No one is doing it all.
Progress happens when we stop waiting for perfect conditions.
5. Tools That Support Imperfect Planning
You don’t need some fancy 10-step system—just one that works for you. And lucky for us, technology and research have come so far that we have so many life-simplifying tools and techniques at our fingertips.
Digital planners for moms – Flexible layouts you can customize to work in your life
Family calendar apps – Shared schedules that keep everyone in the family in sync
Task management apps – Quick ways to track to-dos without overthinking
The best planning tools? The ones that help you show up consistently, not the ones that look perfect on Instagram.
6. Overcoming Perfectionism as a Mom
You can’t organize away perfectionism—but you can change how you respond to it.
Reflect: Notice when you’re stuck on what you planned and not how things are going. Get rid of tasks that don’t help you live the life you want.
Reframe: Remind yourself that good enough moves you forward.
Seek support: Talk it out with a friend, partner, or therapist if needed.
Small mindset shifts make the biggest difference.
Wrap-Up: Progress Over Perfection
Motherhood, work, and life come with enough pressure. Your planning system shouldn’t add to it. Embracing “done beats perfect” doesn’t lower your standards—it frees you to actually do the things that matter most.
✨ Want a simple first step? Download the free Imperfect Reset Kit to help you reset and refresh. It’s designed to meet you where you are—and still work on the messy days.
Remember: progress is always better than paralysis. Perfection isn’t the goal. Living your life is.
