“How do I get it all done?” Three Perfectly Imperfect Tips for Busy People

I really resonate with the advice: “get it done rather than get it perfect.”

There are so many things that we're learning. Technology, new job functions, how to handle this new phase our kids are in… How do you get all the “normal” stuff done while there’s this constant state of change all around you and not lose sight of your greatness at the same time?

Stop trying to get it perfect before you get it done.

We have a desire and need to be able to understand how to do something before we can get started on it. We want to have one more review before we send it off. We don’t tell people about our interest until we’ve done more schooling, reading, practicing… But it holds us back from accomplishing incredible things. And, the longer we’re stuck in that inaction cycle the more we feel frustrated with ourselves, making it less likely we’ll put ourselves out there. We get caught in a trap where we’re not recognizing the greatness, paying close attention to what we can’t do as well as we’d like.

Can you relate?

There are all kinds of things that I don’t know how to do in business but I’ve just realized I need to start anyway. Just the fact I launched my biz with no biz training or plan is evidence of that (if you’re curious, learn more here). But turns out this not knowing has been a living laboratory for me. Join me in exploring a few places for practicing being perfectly imperfect but making progress anyway.

1.Social Media

In the social media realm, we all know the whole game is continually changing. Not only are their new platforms all the time, the existing platforms keep changing (e.g., the introduction of IGTV to Instagram). But one thing that hasn’t changed is that when it comes to video, picture quality, and sound, authentic rules over polished and perfect. Unless you’re an influencer with millions of followers, no one expects perfect quality, makeup, background. They want value, value, value...give that and the rest is forgiven. By still getting out there on social media, you gain. More likes mean more folks see that post on their Wall. More followers mean you have more contacts as prospective bosses, clients, friends. More putting yourself out there builds confidence of being the real you.

2.“Get It Done” Rituals

Of all the things on your to-do list, just pick one and do it. It doesn't have to be the most important thing, it doesn't have to be the thing that you know how to do. Just tackle one. You’ll discover that great feeling of achieving something which will propel you into a motivated state to tackle something else (juicy dopamine hit anyone?!) Sometimes, it’s more important to just accomplish something, even if it is not the most pressing thing, because it gives you the motivation to move forward, and then move onto that next most important thing.

3.Role Modelling

My husband and father are working on renovating a big beautiful barn because this is where the home of Greatness Magnified is going to be in about a year or so. They're not perfect as they’re self-taught and their talents lean in different directions given it’s an extension of their natural gifts. As a result, the barn won’t be perfect - the most exceptionally designed or perfectly laid out or exact right angles - but people aren’t coming for the barn. They’re coming for the motivation, education, and inspiration that happens in the training, retreats, and events that will happen there. If we waited to have the barn perfect and spend money on folks to make it that way, it would be years down the road before we’d be moving in. And the cost factor would likely be prohibitive. What matters most is that they're contributing, giving, and nurturing; their way of supporting the business to grow, and make others happy. Expecting perfection, would not allow others to feel motivated to continue. Just appreciating that momentum is what's most important. Their passion, heart, and soul they put into building it, together, will make it better than anything else anyway!

If you find yourself getting caught up in the perfectionism cycle, or feeling immobilized at the magnitude of change and learning in front of you, I hope you think of one of those three suggestions and examples.

And BTW, if you want more info and insight about how I launched my biz with this same “get it done” “perfectly imperfect” approach, you’re welcome to grab a resource I put together on www.greatnessbiz.com.

What tips do you have in getting it done?

Sarah McVanel is a recognition expert, sharing her knowledge and client stories through professional speaking, coaching, training and her co-authored books “Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness?: Solution Focused Strategies for Satisfied Staff, High Performing Teams and Healthy Bottom Lines” and “The FROG? Effect Workbook: Tools and Strategies to Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness”. Visit her at Greatness Magnified or on eSpeakers. Want more greatness every week? Subscribe to our YouTube channel , our Daily Alexa Flash Briefing for Greatness Biz tips, or Daily Tips to Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness and our blog.