The above quote by American Novelist and Poet, John Updike, perfectly captures the curse of perfectionism. Here, I consider what it means for individuals and also for businesses.
A recent conversation with friends about the ‘perfect Christmas’ got unexpectedly deep very quickly. We questioned where this desire for perfection came from, what it can mask and some very real negative consequences.
It can stem from a feeling of low self-esteem and a fear of failure, often instilled and reinforced throughout childhood. Add in a dose of perfectionism’s good friend, procrastination, and no wonder people feel anxious and burnt out.
Decision making in your business
When this is applied to a business setting it can have a disastrous effect on both the individuals and business involved.
Few would argue that it’s currently tough times for many UK businesses and has been for a few years now. Paradoxically, at a time when businesses should be agile and responsive to seize opportunities, the opposite is often true.
They feel that they can’t afford to ‘make mistakes’, ‘waste’ money, ‘take a risk’. Preferring to wait until they have all the information, the complete strategy in place and a perfect plan to implement.
I get it, I really do, no-one wants to make a ‘mistake’ that may cost jobs or a whole business! However, perfection paralysis is more likely to create this scenario than those willing to trust their expertise and experience to move quickly and with conviction.
Excellence not perfection
So, in 2026, set yourself and your business the goal of excellence not perfection. 80% really is enough as no-one knows what the remaining 20% is anyway!
Excellence is ongoing and provides:
- High, but realistic standards
- Continuous development, learning and growth
- A balanced view of success and failure
- Constructive feedback
- Proactive and empowered colleagues
Create a culture of messy progress, not perfect inaction.
Further reading
Barack Obama faced more than his fair share of difficult decisions in his time as President of the United States. In this blog he explores the impact this had on him, particularly early in his first term. He also outlines the process he developed that gave him the confidence to make difficult decisions that would leave him satisfied that he had done his best.