The Illusion of Readiness: Why Waiting for Perfection Holds You Back

Waiting for the perfect moment to start is a trap that many of us fall into.

We want to wait until we feel comfortable having all the information we need to make an informed decision. Only THEN will we feel ready, right?

Unfortunately, it's only until you've spent weeks, months, or even years before you realize that the perfect time doesn't exist and will never come.

In this installment of "Inverting Your Mindset," I'll share some examples that will motivate you to stop waiting and start taking action.

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Just like in the cockpit, waiting for the perfect conditions to fly can keep you grounded forever. In all my years of flying and today as an entrepreneur, I've learned that real progress comes from taking off even when the weather isn't ideal. It's about embracing turbulence and learning to navigate through it.

For you in your life, it means starting with what you have and where you are. And if you can drum up the courage to do that, the potential is incredible.

You'll discover opportunities you never knew existed and learn lessons that only come from real experience, not just careful planning.

Can you think of a project or task you've been putting off, waiting for the 'right time?' Commit to starting it today, no matter how small the first step might seem. You'll be surprised at how quickly momentum builds once you get going.

The Thunderbirds: Excellence in Imperfection

Watching the Thunderbirds, one might think it's all about perfection. But up close, it's a different story. We make mistakes on every single flight. Most of them go unnoticed by the crowd, but they teach us valuable lessons in the air. It's about excellence, yes, but not perfection. That's a crucial distinction.

In your career, this means understanding that striving for excellence doesn't mean you have to be perfect. You're going to make mistakes, and that's more than okay – it's necessary. Each error is a stepping stone to greater heights. The real potential lies in learning from these experiences and creating an environment where those around you can do the same, a key to building trust within your team.

Think back to a recent mistake you made at work. Instead of beating yourself up about it, ask yourself what it taught you.

How can this lesson improve your future decisions? This mindset shift is a game-changer.

Micro-Adjustments: The Key to Progress

Formation flying is all about micro-adjustments. It’s a fight for inches. We're constantly tweaking our position, never quite reaching 'perfect' but always staying with the formation. It's these tiny adjustments that keep us in position, not a flawless start.

Apply this to your career. It's not about launching perfectly - it's about adjusting as you go. Continuous improvement is far more valuable than a flawless launch that never happens. Each small tweak brings you closer to your goals, teaches you something new, and keeps you agile and adaptable.

Today, make one small adjustment in your work process. It could be as simple as changing how you prioritize your tasks or how you communicate with your team. This small action can lead to significant improvements over time.

The Enemy of Good: Perfectionism's Pitfall

In pursuit of perfection, we often overlook the good we've already achieved. I've seen it in the air and in life – chasing an unattainable ideal that only holds us back. Remember, 'good enough' often leads to more accomplishments than a perfect plan that never takes off.

In your career, embracing 'good enough' can be liberating. It allows you to move forward, make progress, and reduce the stress of unrealistic expectations. Celebrate your 'good enough' achievements as your stepping stones to success.

List three things you've done well recently, no matter how small. Recognize and celebrate these achievements.

This practice builds a positive mindset, which is essential for growth and progress.

Trusting Yourself: Overcoming Self-Doubt

Self-doubt is like turbulence – it can shake you up, but it shouldn't stop you from flying. In the air, I learned to trust my training and instincts, which you can apply in your professional and personal life too. Trusting your skills leads to confidence and growth.

The potential here is massive. When you start trusting your abilities, you unlock a new level of confidence and decision-making. You become more effective, more assertive, and more respected.

So, what's your action step? Write down three strengths you possess. These are your go-to skills, your unique capabilities that you bring to the table. Remind yourself of these strengths whenever you feel self-doubt creeping in. If it helps you, post them on a sticky note next to your desk or on your mirror.

Wrapping Up: Embracing the Journey

Ultimately, it's all about embracing the journey, not just the destination. Every flight and every mission has taught me that. It's in both the experiences and the challenges that learning shapes us, not just when we succeed.

In your career, remember that every step counts. Every attempt, every 'imperfect' action is progress. It's these experiences that build your story and your expertise.

Commit to one new project or task this week, regardless of the outcome.

See it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

It's not about the perfect execution - it's about the journey and the lessons it brings!

Until next time…

Clear skies and tailwinds,

Want to take your journey of inverting your mindset further? Join my FREE 5 day mini course, Taming Your Inner Critic!