How to Fight Perfectionism and Win
Many people take pride in labeling themselves as 'perfectionists', but the truth is that they are insecure and afraid to show imperfection. This article discusses how to fight perfectionism and win, such as embracing the Two-Minute Rule and understanding that actions speak louder than words.
MATT GRAY
"The Systems Guy" | Helping you scale your brand and community with proven systems. Founder & CEO @herbworthy + @founderos
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How to fight perfectionism (and win):
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023 -
Many people take pride in labeling themselves as "perfectionists."
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
The truth:
• They're insecure
• They're afraid to show imperfection
• They've been trained by society that flaws are dangerous -
“The maxim, "Nothing prevails but perfection," may be spelled PARALYSIS.”
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
– Winston Churchill
I've never resonated with a quote more.
My biggest unlock as a founder was the realization that actions speak louder than words. -
But paralysis is not the only danger of perfectionism:
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
• Burnout
• Procrastination
• Constant fear of failure
• Reduced life satisfaction
These can all be common effects of perfectionism.
Here's how I've learned to combat it: -
Embrace James Clear's "Two-Minute Rule"
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
If a task can be done in 2 minutes, do it immediately.
Our mind defaults to setting long hours for basic tasks.
We want to switch our default mode to "action."
• Replying to a DM
• Making an intro
• Brain dumping a business idea -
Build a Practice of Daily Delivery
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
Finishing a shitty draft in 8 hours > never shipping in 8 weeks.
The longer you delay, the less you learn from your experiences.
Only once complete can your mind truly reflect and analyze your work.
Learn to set daily goals. -
Iterate on the 70-20-10 Rule
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
(s/o to @systemsunday)
- 70% of your work will be sh*t
- 20% will be solid
- 10% will be amazing
If you only output 3 products, they could all be your worst work.
Change your mindset from fearing failure to embracing hardship. -
Write Drunk, Edit Sober
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
This advice isn't just for writing.
Write drunk = mindset of "output at all costs"
Edit sober = mindset of "let's use a new perspective"
Perfectionism can cause us to overwork for results.
When unplugging is often key for breakthroughs. -
Welcome Impermanence
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
"Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens." - Epictetus
Stoicism teaches us to embrace change as natural.
Accepting this truth:
• Increases resilience
• Leads to negative visualization (builds preparedness) -
If you enjoyed this follow me @matt_gray_ for more community & business growth systems.
— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
I'm giving away my Community Monetization Playbook for free (worth $249).
Join 50k+ relentless founders who will get it! 👇https://t.co/SoGNuDwdfO -
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— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) April 16, 2023
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