"Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence." — Vince Lombardi
I often find myself caught in the trap of overthinking. Striving for perfection, I want everything to be just right, which sometimes prevents me from taking the first step. This pursuit of the ideal can be paralyzing, holding me back from action. Drawing on the wisdom of Twyla Tharp who reminds us to “just begin,” I’ve learned to confront this challenge head-on. This simple but powerful advice has become a guiding principle for me, especially in my writing process.
When I started this blog, I was entrenched in a cycle of writing, rewriting, and then rewriting some more. Each session was a battle against my own expectations, continuously changing things in pursuit of perfection. It was during this process that I realized the importance of starting, despite imperfections. If I never actually started, nothing would ever get completed. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to begin.
The Pitfalls of Perfectionism
Perfectionism, while seemingly admirable, is often counterproductive. It leads to endless tweaking and overthinking, resulting in stagnation. The fear of imperfection can stop us before we even start.
Embracing Imperfection
The key to overcoming this barrier is to embrace imperfection. Beginning something - anything - is better than not starting at all. By taking action, we shift our focus from fearing failure to progressing toward success, however small those initial steps might be.
Practical Steps to Just Begin
Here are some practical ways to combat overthinking and embrace action:
Set Clear Deadlines: Deadlines compel us to focus and prioritize completion over perfection.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can seem daunting. Breaking them into manageable pieces can make starting less intimidating.
Embrace 'Done is Better Than Perfect': Instead of endlessly polishing and tweaking, accept that completing a task is often more valuable than perfecting it. This approach helps to maintain momentum and keep projects moving forward.
Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Find joy in the act of doing, not just in completing the task.
Conclusion: The Power of Action Over Perfection
Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Starting sets things in motion, allowing for learning and adjustment along the way. By choosing to start, you open the door to opportunities and growth that remain inaccessible if you wait for the perfect moment or the perfect execution.
As someone who has struggled with overthinking, I assure you that the most important thing is not how flawlessly you begin, but that you do indeed start. Letting go of the need for perfection frees you to move forward. It’s not just about finishing the race; it’s about having the courage to start it.
