Jun 17, 2024
Perfectionist Prison
The art of overanalysing can be a paralysing thing. It's one of the biggest culprits to halting momentum when pursuing an idea. We often get caught up in seeking perfection; wanting everything to be just right before we share it with the world. But the truth is, the want for perfection is the direct antagonist to our goals.
I've really welcomed the idea of ignorance when it comes to working on an idea. Not in the sense of the project goals or task at hand but the idea of chasing a 'finished' product. A certain level of ignorance to just dive in and allow the progress to unfold naturally is so energising. It has an element of child-like nature to it that is so freeing. This approach to my personal projects has lead to a more organic and authentic outcome that reaps a lot more valuable rewards — human connection being a huge one.
I'm by all means no professional at this. I still crave perfectionism in some way when I'm working on my craft. The want to put my best in at all times is a huge asset to have. However, I've made the conscience effort to click publish at the earliest convenience. The first verbal, "I like this" is a great indicator to when I've reached that checkpoint.
Learning to value work in progress and growth over perfection is a game changer. It's the breeding ground for growth in being flexible, adaptive and open to feedback and change. A well-rounded person is on the end of learning to let go. It also relieves the internal pressure of feeling you need to have everything figured out building up.
If you can take anything from this piece of writing, it's to just take a leap and publish. Show the world. It's a journey, not a destination, and embracing that mindset can be liberating and ultimately more rewarding in the long run.