How Working Fast Can Help You Overcome Perfectionism

 If you struggle with perfectionism, it can lead to procrastination and even missed deadlines. In many posts here in Stepping Stones from A Pilgrimage to Self, I have discussed the link between perfectionism and procrastination. I have also gone over the different problems that can arise and some solutions to these issues. Here is a simple tip for overcoming perfectionism that you may not have heard before: working fast.

That may seem like an odd idea. But if you think about it, perfectionists can get bogged down in the details of projects. Concentrating too long on the small pieces or doing something over and over again to get it just right is certainly a problem. Making yourself work fast and setting time limits can help force you to just get it finished. Remember, done is better than perfect.

You likely already have deadlines for your projects. You may even be great at setting a daily schedule with time set aside for certain tasks. Maybe you even use the time-blocking system or the Pomodoro time management technique. That’s great! However, working fast goes a step further.

Take your tasks or your project and set yourself a time limit that is a bit shorter than you would typically allow. Set a tight deadline. As I've mentioned in other posts, people will usually work more efficiently when given less time. Remember Parkinson’s Law, which states that you will take as much time to complete a task as you are given. So challenge yourself.

Set timers for your activities, tasks, and projects. Work FAST and concentrate on getting it done, not perfect. You may surprise yourself. Another way you can practice this concept of working fast is to challenge yourself to make decisions in a snap. Throughout the day or week, when you have to make any decisions, make them quickly and without second-guessing yourself.

Before you know it, this quick action and fast working will create momentum in your work and in your life. It can help you overcome perfectionism while also boosting your confidence and decision-making skills. You may become more disciplined in your time management which will boost your productivity.

Working fast is just another tool to add to your kit. Utilize it when necessary. When you feel that you are getting bogged down and spending too much time on the small details of a project, remember to pull out your timer and set yourself a time limit. Finish your project and move on.

Don't forget...done is better than perfect. When you take the time to make your "to-do" list, highlight the three things that you can complete right away...the three things that will give you the biggest bang for your buck...your time. Get those three things done and then add to them if you'd like; the hardest step is the first one...make a decision and take it!

Until next time...

Lisa

P.S. Do you suffer from perfectionism? Join me for A Pilgrimage to Self...learn new life management skills...Https://www.lisamcgrath.me