The enemy of good is better
Why getting better is better than being the best
Are you tired of aiming for perfection and constantly falling short? It's time to reconsider your approach. As Jack Reacher, the protagonist in Lee Child's bestselling thriller novels would say, "The enemy of good is better." This statement encapsulates the idea that continually striving for improvement is more important than being the best.
But why is this the case? And how can you apply this principle to your life? Let's explore.
Improvement is a Journey, not a Destination
One of the biggest pitfalls of striving for perfection is the pressure to be the best. But what happens when you reach that goal? The truth is, there's always someone better, someone faster, someone stronger. Constantly chasing perfection can lead to burnout, frustration, and a lack of fulfillment.
On the other hand, focusing on improvement means that the journey is never over. There's always room for growth and learning, and every small victory along the way is worth celebrating. Remember, the enemy of good is better, not perfect.
Embrace Failure as Part of the Process
Another benefit of focusing on improvement over perfection is that it takes the fear of failure out of the equation. When you're striving for perfection, the thought of falling short can be debilitating. But when you focus on getting better, failure becomes just another step in the process. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow, not a source of defeat.
Better is a Relative Term
It's important to keep in mind that better is a relative term. What might be better for one person might not be for another. The key is to define what better means to you, and then work towards that goal. Whether it's running a faster mile, writing more pages per day, or closing more deals, the focus should always be on improving yourself, not comparing yourself to others.
In conclusion, focusing on improvement instead of perfection will not only lead to a more fulfilling journey, but it will also set you up for long-term success. So why not embrace the idea that the enemy of good is better, and start working on getting better today?
Do you struggle with the pressure of being the best? How has focusing on improvement changed your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!