Episode 122: Progress, Not Perfection: The Power of Focusing on How Far you have Come In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen reflects on the journey of personal growth, self-acceptance, and overcoming adversity. Drawing from his own life experiences—from childhood anxieties and struggles with fitting in, to discovering his voice, facing setbacks, and ultimately finding purpose—Kimen shares insights on the importance of pausing to acknowledge how far we've come. He emphasizes that growth is not linear, that embracing our unique qualities is essential, and that letting go of rigid expectations can open new paths. The episode encourages listeners to celebrate their progress, trust their inner wisdom, and keep moving forward with courage and authenticity. = 00:00 – 00:40Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 00:41 – 01:21Encouragement to pause and reflect on personal progress rather than focusing on how far there is to go. 01:22 – 06:40Kimen’s childhood: feeling overwhelmed by the future, learning to cope with anxiety, and the importance of staying present. 06:41 – 13:20Adolescence: struggles with self-image, shyness, and the desire to fit in; realization that outliers often achieve the most. 13:21 – 21:00Teen years: overcoming fear of embarrassment through progressive exposure, building courage, and facing discomfort. 21:01 – 28:00Early adulthood: embarking on a self-help journey, seeking to fix perceived flaws, and the realization that self-growth can become endless. 28:01 – 38:00Major life turning point: discovering dyslexia, facing health challenges, and deciding to make significant life changes. 38:01 – 46:00Returning to school, working hard, and finding fulfillment in helping others; reflection on how far he’s come. 46:01 – 54:00Pursuing creative goals (writing a book), facing setbacks, and learning to let go of rigid expectations. 54:01 – End Embracing the non-linear nature of progress, celebrating personal victories, and encouraging listeners to focus on how far they’ve come rather than how far they have to go. Closing remarks and call to action.