Perfectionism is inherently counterproductive.

What constitutes perfectionism, fundamentally?

Perfectionism is intrinsically linked to expectations. As sentient beings, we are cognizant of our mortality, which inherently generates specific expectations. These anticipations originate from the nascent stages of existence, even prior to conception, as they are shaped by prospective parental aspirations and the prevailing cultural norms of one's birth environment.

It is estimated that prior to reaching the age of eight, an individual encounters the word 'no' approximately 150 times more frequently than 'yes'. This underscores the significant burden of expectations placed upon us. Let us now consider the trajectory from birth to demise.

What are the predominant regrets individuals express during their final moments?

Is it that they did not invest sufficient effort to perfect their endeavors?

No.

The most profound regret individuals experience is not having possessed the fortitude to authentically express themselves, nor the courage to resist conforming to the incessant expectations of others.

The pursuit of social acceptance

Perfectionism is primarily driven by the desire for social validation. It stems from an inherent, childlike need for approval, operating under the premise that flawless execution secures approbation. This 'perfect' standard often mirrors parental expectations, which are subsequently projected onto figures such as employers, clients, neighbors, and other influential individuals.

For an entrepreneur, perfectionism is a detrimental drain on financial resources and vital energy.

Perfectionists are individuals preoccupied with appearances, often leveraging platforms like Facebook as their quintessential visual compendium to project an idealized self-image.

The pivotal question, however, remains: whose idealized image is truly being pursued?

It is more advantageous to be approximately correct than precisely erroneous.

In both personal and professional domains, perfectionism proves to be an adversary.

Contemporary discourse emanating from Silicon Valley frequently features assertive rhetoric such as “10x better or nothing at all”. These expressions are, in essence, euphemisms for perfectionism.

I find greater utility in the pragmatic insight offered by a client who has maintained a leadership position in their sector for over 25 years: “One merely needs to be 3% superior to the competition. That suffices.”

Another client articulated a compelling perspective: “We ship suboptimal software.” This statement, too, offers clarity. While striving for perfection as an entrepreneur might benefit your clientele, it ultimately proves detrimental to your own operational efficiency and well-being.

Consequently, I would be inclined to engage your services as a client.

Indeed, perfection is often the adversary of good.

When a deliverable achieves an 80% or 90% satisfactory state, one must critically evaluate the marginal utility derived from expending additional energy to attain the final 10% or 20% of perfection, weighed against the substantial investment required.

As an author, I am intimately familiar with this phenomenon. For one truth remains immutable:

Upon the publication of this article, I can readily identify numerous aspects that could have been enhanced in terms of quality, engagement, or conciseness. This principle applies universally to all publications, without exception.

Communication is perpetually subject to improvement. Indeed, all facets of endeavor possess inherent potential for enhancement.

Therefore, I shall reiterate the formula for contentment:

Contentment = Reality – Expectations.

Fritz Perls articulated this eloquently, rendering any attempt on my part to perfect it superfluous:

I fulfill my obligations, and you fulfill yours,

I do not exist to conform to your expectations,

nor do you exist for mine.

You are an autonomous entity, and I am likewise.

And should we happen to meet, that is good.

And should that not occur, then there is nothing to be done.

— Fritz Perls, Psychotherapist

EELCO SMIT – Business Coach based in Amsterdam and author of Book for MEN – Dare to Make Authentic Choices and The Rules of the Game – for a Courageous Life.