In today’s fast-paced world, the mantra ‘Done is better than perfect’ is not just a catchy phrase; it’s a vital approach to productivity and personal growth. This concept, while seemingly simple, holds profound wisdom, especially for those in leadership or senior positions.
Perfection, as we often envision it, is an illusion—a construct that exists only in our minds and is rarely achievable in reality. Striving for perfection can lead to a significant waste of time and resources, especially when we continue to invest effort beyond the point of diminishing returns. This ties closely to the Pareto Principle, where 80% of the outcomes often come from just 20% of the efforts.
Take, for example, the process of creating the above video. My appearance may not be polished – unkempt hair, a casual t-shirt – but the essence of delivering the message takes precedence over waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment or setting. The key message here is that striving for an unattainable perfection often hinders more than it helps.
So, what tasks or projects have you been over-investing in lately? Where could you apply the ‘done is better than perfect’ mindset to improve efficiency and effectiveness?
As we navigate through our personal and professional lives, it’s crucial to recognise when perfectionism is holding us back. By shifting our focus to completion rather than perfection, we can achieve more, reduce stress, and find greater satisfaction in our endeavours.
Remember, it’s often the act of doing, despite imperfections, that leads to growth and success. So next time you find yourself stuck in the pursuit of perfection, remind yourself that ‘done is better than perfect’ and see where this mindset takes you.