- The Optimalist
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- Don't be precious
I was listening to a Mike Posner interview yesterday.
Huge fan of the guy.
He makes incredible music
His life philosophy is super inspiring
His energy is off the charts
Any time I see him on a podcast, you know I’m going to be listening.
Anyway, in this particular episode, he said something that I can’t get out of my head…
“Stop trying to make it perfect. Holding a song or a piece of writing back because you want to save it for the perfect time or the right circumstances only ends up holding you back.”
Or something like that.
(don’t quote me, i mainly just remember the vibes, there is no transcript of the show, and I’m in a crowded tire shop right now)
But the message is something I needed to hear.
I’m definitely guilty of this:
“This app idea is amazing! I’m going to wait until I learn more about databases to make an MVP.”
“I don’t have enough experience, there’s no way someone would buy a cohort offer from me.”
“I’ll wait till I’m a better writer to tackle this idea.”
But here’s the truth…
Yes, you may want to execute that thing perfectly, but waiting will only make it harder to have a better idea (that’s more validated) and will rob you of the experience you would’ve got if you just did it now.
It’s like a spigot.
When you first turn on a water spigot, there will be junk that comes out before the good water flow starts.
It’s the same with your creations.
No matter how good you think you are, no matter how perfect the conditions may be, there is always room for improvement.
So, even though that idea may have to be perfect in your mind, or you think that you aren’t skilled enough to do it justice, do it anyway.
Get the spigot flowing.
You can’t become the best version of yourself by waiting until you’re good enough.
You have to get in the reps:
Write that article
Record that video
Start that app project
I promise you that your best ideas are ahead…
If, and only if, you get started.
“Don’t be afraid to just write on things. Don’t be precious.” - Virgil Abloh