Progress, Not Perfection January often brings a mix of optimism and pressure, the feeling that something new should begin and that it should begin perfectly. It’s a natural moment to pause, take stock, and think about the year ahead, not just in terms of goals, but in terms of direction. New beginnings bring energy and optimism, but they can also bring pressure. Pressure to decide quickly. To get things right immediately. To set expectations that may be difficult to sustain once life inevitably intervenes.