How do you deal with perfectionism that is stopping you from finishing things?

Question

I have ideas, projects, and goals that I never complete because nothing is ever good enough to show or release. I have half-finished creative work going back years. Perfectionism is paralyzing me. How do you get past the need for everything to be perfect before you can move forward?

zoey_scott · Accepted Answer

Perfectionism is fear wearing a productivity costume. The standard of perfect is often not about quality but about protection from judgment. If it is never finished it can never be criticized. Name that fear directly and it loses some of its power.

kinsley_james · Answer

Set a done standard instead of a perfect standard. Define in advance what finished looks like for this specific project. When it meets that standard you ship it regardless of how you feel about it. Feelings are not a reliable quality control system.

How do you deal with perfectionism that is stopping you from finishing things?

2 answers
Most votes Newest Oldest

Write an Answer

How do you deal with perfectionism that is stopping you from finishing things?

2 answers Most votes Newest Oldest

Write an Answer

2 answers
Most votes Newest Oldest