EAP 83: Done is Better Than Perfect

The topic of this episode is likely close to home for a lot of the Early Accountability podcast listeners: perfectionism. High achievers often struggle with perfectionism, having high standards and expectations which should lead to flawless performance. However, since perfection is not actually attainable, high achievers also fail to reach the goals they have set for themselves, which can lead to anxiety or depression. It is important to be realistic and self-aware enough to accept that sometimes “done” is better than “perfect”. Kimi outlines some of these specific times: 1. When it is going to keep you from striving towards and unattainable or unrealistic goal – No one has ever benefitted from setting themselves up to fail. It is better to succeed at an attainable or realistic goal. 2. When it will stop you from procrastinating – Often, high achievers procrastinate starting something until they think they can accomplish it perfectly. Sometimes the best thing to do is just get started and make adjustments along the way. 3. When it will stop you from diminishing yourself – Having unrealistic expectations of yourself will lead to lower self-esteem and feeling like you are “less than” or not good enough. You cannot be effective and successful if you are your own worst enemy. Topics Covered in this Episode: • Perfectionism • High achievers • When “done” is better than “perfect” • Self-awareness