The 15% Rule: Because Perfect Is Overrated

When we finally see where we’d like to get to, or how we’d like to be, whether that’s feeling calmer, setting boundaries, or breaking an old pattern, it can feel massive. The mountain looms, and instead of celebrating the fact that we’ve spotted the path, we immediately start scolding ourselves for not being at the top already. Humans, eh?

But here’s what I tell my clients (and, truthfully, I have to remind myself) you don’t need to transform overnight. You don’t even need to hit 100% ever. Fifteen percent better is often all it takes to create real, lasting change. Tiny shifts in awareness, behaviour, or kindness towards yourself can ripple out in powerful ways.

In therapy, we focus on these small, consistent steps, noticing what’s working, adjusting gently when it’s not, and practising patience. Because without patience, there’s no self-compassion, and without compassion, change becomes punishment, not growth.

So next time that inner critic tells you you’re not doing enough, smile politely and carry on. You’re learning, you’re growing, and you’re allowed to do it at a human pace, not a heroic one.

🌼 Progress doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to be kind.

~ Jumbled Bean