In life, it’s easy to fall into the trap of labeling people as either “good” or “bad.” This binary way of thinking can limit our understanding of human nature and reduce complex individuals to overly simplistic judgments. The reality, however, is far more nuanced. What truly matters is not whether someone fits into the category of “good” or “bad,” but whether they are striving to grow, improve, and be better today than they were yesterday.

This philosophy shifts the focus from judgment to progress, from fixed traits to continuous effort. Here’s why this perspective is powerful and how it can change the way we see ourselves and others.

1. Growth Over Perfection

One of the key insights from this perspective is the idea that no one is perfect—and that’s okay. Human beings are inherently flawed and imperfect. What’s important is not the pursuit of perfection but the pursuit of improvement. Instead of asking whether someone is “good” or “bad,” we should ask whether they are working toward becoming better.

Example: A person who struggles with anger might not immediately stop feeling angry in difficult situations. But if they’re working on recognizing their triggers and finding healthier ways to cope, they are making progress, even if they occasionally falter.

2. Judgment Limits Potential

Labeling people as good or bad can create a sense of finality, as if one’s character is set in stone. This mindset often prevents growth because it leaves little room for change. When we focus on improvement instead, we open the door to transformation. People are not stuck in their past mistakes or shortcomings; they have the capacity to grow, learn, and become better versions of themselves every day.

Example: Someone who has made poor choices in the past may feel condemned by the “bad” label, but if they are working to make amends and build a better future, they deserve recognition for their efforts, not judgment for their past.

3. The Value of Effort

What really matters is effort. Life is a continuous journey of learning and self-improvement, and everyone is at a different stage of that journey. The effort to improve, no matter how small, is what counts. Whether it’s learning new skills, working on personal weaknesses, or striving to be kinder and more compassionate, these efforts reflect a deeper commitment to personal growth.

Example: A colleague who may have previously been difficult to work with starts making small changes, such as listening more or offering help. These incremental improvements show that they are trying to be better today than they were yesterday, and that effort deserves acknowledgment.

4. Self-Compassion and Patience

This philosophy also encourages self-compassion. Too often, we are harshly critical of ourselves, focusing on our mistakes or failures without recognizing the progress we’ve made. By adopting a mindset of continuous growth, we give ourselves permission to be imperfect while acknowledging the value in trying. Progress takes time, and each small step forward is significant.

Example: A person working to overcome procrastination may not immediately become perfectly productive, but if they’ve made small improvements in how they manage their time, they can celebrate that progress rather than dwell on where they fall short.

5. Everyone’s Journey is Different

What constitutes “better” for one person may not be the same for someone else. Everyone has different challenges, circumstances, and starting points. The key is recognizing that progress is deeply personal. What matters is that individuals are working toward their own growth, not comparing themselves to others.

Example: For one person, “being better” may mean practicing patience and reducing impulsive behavior. For another, it might mean setting healthier boundaries in relationships. The effort to improve is what unites everyone, even if the specific goals differ.

6. Empathy and Understanding

Viewing others through the lens of growth rather than fixed labels fosters empathy and understanding. People are complex, and everyone has their struggles. When we shift our focus from judging whether someone is good or bad to recognizing their efforts to grow, we become more compassionate toward others. We start to see their humanity and the ongoing work they are putting into becoming better.

Example: A friend who may have disappointed you in the past is now making efforts to rebuild trust and improve communication. Instead of holding onto past grievances, acknowledging their efforts allows for forgiveness and stronger relationships.

7. Accountability Without Condemnation

This perspective does not mean excusing harmful behavior or ignoring accountability. Instead, it emphasizes that while people are responsible for their actions, they are also capable of growth. Holding someone accountable is important, but it should be done in a way that encourages them to learn from their mistakes and strive to be better moving forward.

Example: A family member who has hurt you through unkind words can still be held accountable for their actions, but if they are making an effort to change their behavior and apologize, that effort deserves recognition.

8. Breaking Free From Labels

People are dynamic, not static. What someone was yesterday doesn’t define who they are today or who they can become tomorrow. Labels like “good” or “bad” trap individuals in narrow definitions, often ignoring their capacity for change. When we focus on growth, we allow people—and ourselves—the freedom to evolve.

Example: A student who once struggled academically but is now putting in extra effort to study and improve their grades is not defined by their past struggles. Their dedication to growth shows that they are more than any label attached to them.

9. Encouraging a Growth Mindset

This philosophy aligns closely with the concept of a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. When we focus on being better today than we were yesterday, we embrace a growth mindset, which not only improves our self-esteem but also encourages persistence in the face of challenges.

Example: An athlete working to improve their skills may encounter setbacks, but by focusing on consistent effort and improvement, they build resilience and eventually see results.

10. Continuous Self-Improvement

The ultimate lesson from this philosophy is that growth is a lifelong journey. No one ever reaches a point of perfection, and that’s okay. What matters is the continuous effort to be better—more empathetic, more self-aware, more kind, more disciplined. Each day is an opportunity to grow, and that is the most important measure of a person.

Example: Whether it’s working on emotional regulation, learning new skills, or deepening relationships, the pursuit of self-improvement is ongoing. The key is to embrace the process, knowing that growth is the goal, not perfection.

Conclusion

In the end, what matters is not whether people are “good” or “bad,” but whether they are making an effort to improve. This shift in perspective encourages self-compassion, empathy toward others, and a deeper understanding of human growth. By focusing on progress rather than judgment, we create a world where individuals are free to evolve, learn from their mistakes, and strive to be better today than they were yesterday.