What do you value more: Performance or Perfection?
With performance, you focus on getting the job done. You want to execute! Take action! The risk: There may be missteps along the way requiring additional effort to fix. If you value perfection, your primary goal is to ensure no mistakes are made. Do it right the first time! The risk: Opportunities may pass you by and you may not get as much accomplished.
In the battle of perfection vs. performance, which one wins? Both sides can raise pretty convincing arguments.
Performance tells Perfection:
- It’s good enough! We have to start somewhere. Let’s make our presence known and start here!
- There are lessons in mistakes. We have a long road to perfection. Let’s learn along the way.
- The risk is worth the reward. This opportunity may not come again. Let’s do it!
Perfection tells Performance:
- We can do better. We owe it to ourselves and to others to give our best the first time!
- Other opportunities will come. When we’re ready, the right doors will open. Let’s take the time to prepare.
- The reward is not worth the risk. The stakes are too high to risk repercussions!
We approach the intersection of performance and perfection more often than we realize. The kids may not get the healthiest lunch today but they’re fed (performance). You need to rewrite a proposal if you want to win a high-profile client (perfection). Sometimes we have to assess the risk, make a clear choice and move forward with no regrets.
Other times, we may be able to balance between the two. Why can’t we get it done and do it right at the same time? As you perform, don’t neglect the perfecting process along the way. As you perfect, don’t forget that it doesn’t count if you don’t deliver.
Question: How do you balance performance and perfection in your life?
INK WELL SPOKEN
“Endowing Your Worth with the Power of Words”
