The Mirror - 1% Better
Micro changes. One percent better helps you achieve your goals
Embracing Growth: 1% Better Every Day
In 2022, I attended my first barre class at California Family Fitness in Sacramento, California. I was a naïve student, eager yet unsure of what to expect. The instructor, Laura Platt, led the class with consistency, beginning each session with a warm-up, a mindset exercise, or a reminder to be present. One thing she always said stuck with me:
"Thank you for choosing your body and making the decision to show up."
Her words were inspiring, but what resonated most was her simple yet powerful mantra:
"Do 1% better every day. If you improve by just 1% daily, by the end of the year, you will be a completely different person."
That phrase transformed my mindset. It was a game-changer, a shift in how I approached self-improvement.
A Work in Progress
One of the beautiful things about life is that we are all imperfect—constantly evolving, changing, and growing. Someone reminded me today that it’s okay to say:
"I am a work in progress."
It’s a powerful realization. You are neither perfect nor flawed—you exist in the in-between, always seeking growth while also allowing yourself to be present in the moment. Progress doesn’t mean rushing forward at all times; sometimes, it means standing still, taking a breath, and embracing where you are right now.
James Clear, in his book Atomic Habits, reinforces this idea:
"If you improve by just 1% each day, by the end of the year, you will be 365% better as compared to when you started."
It’s an incredible concept—growth through small, consistent efforts. We must be willing to adapt, build, evolve, and challenge ourselves, yet also embrace solitude, reflection, and rest when needed. We are all works in progress, and that’s okay.
Pole, Pole – Step by Step
When I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, I faced what felt like an insurmountable challenge: climbing the world's tallest freestanding mountain. A nine-day journey lay ahead, and at times, I doubted my ability to reach the summit.
Our local guide introduced us to a Tanzanian phrase: “Pole, pole.”
It means “slow and steady.” Even when faced with the most daunting obstacles, the only way forward is one small step at a time.
That lesson has shaped how I approach life. Whether climbing a mountain or striving for personal success, true growth happens step by step, day by day, moment by moment.
So today, take a deep breath. Move forward 1% at a time. Be patient with yourself. And trust that each small effort is shaping a future version of you—stronger, wiser, and ready to climb any mountain ahead.
Pole, pole.
Yes - I did make it to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro!
Disclaimer:
The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health professionals with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information you have read here.
