A 1% GMAT Improvement Each Day Leads to a Top Score Faster Than You Think

We all have days when we feel on point—everything flows smoothly, our focus is sharp, and progress comes easily. It’s as if we have it all together, and every task runs like clockwork. On the other hand, there are days when even the simplest things feel challenging, when motivation dips, and when we have to put in extra effort just to accomplish what we set out to do. And that’s okay. Growth isn’t about being perfect every day; it’s about showing up and making progress, no matter how small.

Striving for perfection isn’t a bad thing. High standards can push you to do your best. However, when you have multiple responsibilities and goals competing for your attention, it’s important to give yourself permission to be human. Some days, you’ll exceed expectations, and other days, you may fall short. But that doesn’t mean you aren’t growing. Real progress happens in the space between success and failure—where you challenge yourself, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward. If you can recognize the areas where you can improve, even just a little, you’re already on the path to success.

The key is to set realistic, quantifiable standards that help you track your growth without feeling overwhelmed. Small, consistent improvements compound over time, leading to significant progress. Instead of aiming for flawless execution, aim for steady advancement. As Facebook’s COO Sheryl Sandberg wisely said, “Done is better than perfect.” Keep showing up, keep learning, and trust that every step forward—no matter how small—gets you closer to your goal.

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep