I often suffer from “paralysis by analysis” — I think too much when making decisions, and aim for perfection.

Just do something

But the biggest problem is when I aim for perfection, I end up doing nothing.

Rather, I suggest the “80% rule” — just aim to do something 80% “good enough” — and just do it.

For example, when buying clothes— find clothes that fit you 80% good enough, and please your aesthetic tastes 80% good enough. Then settle, and be happy with your wardrobe.

With a camera, aim for a camera that is 80% good enough. Don’t try to find a perfect camera, because it doesn’t exist.

With your romantic partner, try to find someone 80% compatible to you. Then aim to fill in the gaps, by being more patient, loving, and compassionate. You will never find a ‘perfect’ soul-mate. And if anything, I find my greatest love for Cindy through her imperfections.

Perfect doesn’t exist

Other ideas:

1. Don’t aim for perfection in your photos

Don’t aim for perfection in your photos. Make photos which you think are 80% good enough, and publish or share them. The same goes with publishing a book, having an exhibition, or making a magazine.

2. All life is a work-in-progress

Everything in life is a work in progress. Of course you don’t want to half-ass things (that is only 50%). I would say hustle as hard as you can, and try your hardest.

3. Action is our life-blood

But action should be the theme of our lives. Don’t let “paralysis by analysis” hold you back. Or perfection.

4. Aim for ‘good’

Voltaire once said that “perfect is the enemy of the good.” Perfection doesn’t exist. But good exists.

Aim to be good, not perfect. And you will find more energy, enthusiasm, and creativity in your life.

Always,
Eric

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