THE QUOTE: "Nobody has a perfect anything. We don't have perfect lives. We're not perfect beings." - Gladys Knight

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

The Perfectionism Trap (01:05) Why perfectionism actually makes us freeze instead of excel, and how it kept this podcast from starting for over a year.

The "Do It Dirty" Philosophy (06:49) Sometimes you have to start messy. Learn why waiting for perfect conditions is the enemy of progress.

The Gumbo Method (07:35) Just like making gumbo, you need to start with the roux. You can always add more ingredients as you go, but you have to start somewhere.

Gladys Knight's Love Lessons (08:17) How the Empress of Soul's four marriages teach us about resilience and never giving up on what matters.

Reframing Perfection (15:01) What if perfection isn't a destination but a lifetime journey? This mindset shift changes everything.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Perfectionism is often fear dressed up as high standards
• "Done is better than perfect because perfect never gets done"
• Failing forward means learning from every mistake
• Progress over perfection creates lasting change
• You can't learn and grow without taking imperfect action

THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE: Create your own definition of success that prioritizes progress over perfection. What does 1% better each day look like in your life?

ABOUT GLADYS KNIGHT: Known as the "Empress of Soul," Gladys Knight's career spans decades, from her teenage years to her 80s. Her autobiography "Between Each Line of Pain and Glory" reveals a life of continuous growth, learning, and never giving up on love or dreams.

FAVORITE QUOTE FROM THE EPISODE: "Bring on the pain, bring on the glory. I will be in this fight to share my gifts, to enjoy my blessings, and to be loved." - Gladys Knight

MENTIONED SONGS:

• "Love Overboard" by Gladys Knight & The Pips
• "That's What Friends Are For" by Dionne Warwick & Friends (featuring Gladys Knight)

CONNECT:

Website: www.aliciatsays.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliciatsays/

Tip Jar: https://aliciatsays.link/tipjar