Where does a task truly begin and end?
Often, it's unclear. If you're always aiming for 100% perfection, you'll rarely complete anything.
Full readiness is a myth
- Delaying until every edge case is covered or every detail is flawless reduces your output frequency.
- Sometimes, 70% completion is sufficient to move forward.
- Notice how the first half of a job goes quickly, reaching 70% takes a bit longer, but achieving 100% drags on indefinitely?
- Imagine consistently delivering at 70%, you'd accomplish 10 times more than someone fixated on perfecting a single item.
This contrasts with the education system, where 100% accuracy is demanded on the first attempt, with ample time provided. That's an inefficient approach for real progress, even in learning.
In reality, most tasks don't need perfection to advance to the next step, unless you're chasing a top grade.
Those who ship at 70% and iterate rapidly often end up with superior products and greater value than perfectionists.
This explains why academically gifted individuals don't always dominate in business: Competitors who ship faster recognise that 20% of the effort yields 80% of the value.
Define what 70% looks like deliberately
Aiming for 70% doesn't mean half hearted work.
Instead, identify core priorities upfront and focus on delivering "must-have" features.
Defer "nice-to-have" elements for future iterations after meeting initial goals.
Avoid shipping subpar quality: Ensure it's functionally usable, coherent, and user friendly—people shouldn't feel confused or frustrated.
Always adhere to basics like compliance and security to avoid issues.
Conclusion
Embracing 70% readiness isn't settling for mediocrity.
It's a strategic decision to prioritise what's essential.
Ship the valuable core first, then refine details once validated.
Often, those extras prove unnecessary, saving wasted effort.
This mindset is a superpower, but tread carefully around educators who demand perfection.