Overcoming Perfectionism- An important front in the GTD war
December 14th, 2005
I cannot remember where I heard this quote, but is one if often think of when I have a problem getting going or finishing a task.
“Procrastination is never starting, perfectionism is never getting finished.”
Overcoming procrastination is often a major stumbling block to getting things done, but as this quote illustrates, overcoming procrastination is only part of getting things done. Another important part of being effective in getting things done is knowing when “good enough” is good enough.
The next time you find yourself working on a task, ask yourself “What is a satisfactory outcome for this effort” and “What am I not getting done while I am working on this task”. If you can answer those two questions, I am confident that you will find the medium between excellence, and obsessiveness.
What do you think?
Entry Filed under: Procrastination/Overwhelm
2 Comments Add your own
1. Robert | December 23rd, 2005 at 4:55 pm
Here’s a nice matching quote to go with that one: “Productivity is about completion.”
And I have the source, too.
Fast Company magazine, May 2000… an interview with David Allen.
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/34/allen.html
2. admin | January 5th, 2006 at 11:43 pm
Thanks for the addition Robert! That dovetails nicely with the quote (and the fact that you could attribute the quote as well…priceless!)
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