Why Successful Leaders Commit to Growth and Not Perfection
Before we begin…
2026—it’s a new year, a time to pause, reflect, and set resolutions. Through the years — I’ve learned that committing to growth is more effective than committing to perfection. Because growth, even if little, fosters humility, resilience, and a lasting influence.
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Perfectionism is appealing, especially in leadership. It entails control, certainty, and approval. Yet, it often produces the opposite—a fear of failure, resistance to feedback, and emotional exhaustion.
The mindset of perfection can stifle innovation and over time, erode trust. It can lead to risk avoidance, struggles to admit mistakes, and cultures where people don’t feel safe to grow.
On the other hand, growth is about learning, being courageous, and adapting easier. These are the essential qualities in today’s constantly changing world. When the focus is on growth, it’s easier to understand that it’s a journey, not a destination and that excellence emerges over time through discipline, reflection, and perseverance.
Ultimately, it’s progress that builds credibility and inspires loyalty. So rather than resolving to “have all the answers” this new year, resolve to ask better questions. Seek feedback, welcome different perspectives, and view setbacks as opportunities to learn. In other words, reflect with strength rooted in self-awareness.
Making new year resolutions, based on growth reconnects us to our values, integrity, service, and vision. Leadership becomes more about meaningful impact, and less about perfection.
This time of year gives us a unique opportunity to assess ourselves honestly. By asking:
Where did I grow most last year?
What experiences contributed to that growth?
What leadership habits or mindsets are no longer serving me?
What must I be willing to release this coming year?
How am I responding to challenges? Am I leading with wisdom and purpose?
How does my leadership help others grow?
What do I need to prioritize to lead more effectively (character, faith, EQ)?
Am I able to discern God’s plan in everything I do?
Discernment helps us recognize that wisdom, strength, and direction come from trust in God and not from our personal effort. By seeking God’s guidance in times of uncertainty, we develop patience, compassion, and resilience.
This new year, rather than striving for perfection—strive for prayer, discernment, and humility. Doing this anchors decisions in purpose rather than pressure. This spiritual grounding allows you to lead with calm assurance and model with grace. Don’t worry about appearances or perfection. Remain teachable and committed to becoming better than you were last year.
Have a blessed weekend!
—Dr. Aguilar
