I am sure you have heard the old adage, “Anything worth doing is worth doing well.” That is not a bad approach to have. However, some time back one of my children shared something with me that they had read online. What they shared totally deconstructed the old adage. What if we took the approach, “Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly”?
But, what if we can use this approach as a catalyst to overcome paralyzing inertia that keeps us from taking actions that we need and/or want very much to take?
Please hear me out on this, especially if you tend to be someone who is a perfectionist. How many times have we approached some task and then walked away from it without attempting complete or even start it? The reasons we believed we would not do the task well could be varied. Perhaps we thought we did not have enough time. Maybe we did not feel we had the ability and/or aptitude to be really good at the task. It could be that we felt intimidated by some friend, family member, or other person in our life whom we knew to be far more adept at this task than we are. The task can be anything from the mundane to the magnificent, brushing our teeth to building an awesome getaway cottage. Whatever it may be, we decide that since we cannot do it well, often by someone else’s perceived standards, we will not even attempt it. I remember a couple of the examples my child shared with me. Perhaps we do not have the time or energy to brush our teeth for the full two minutes that is recommended. It is better to brush them at least 30 seconds than none at all. Perhaps we are not up to a brisk 30 or 40 minute walk. It is still better to at least get up and walk around the house for five minutes than simply remain sitting.
Do not misunderstand my point here. I am not advocating for a shoddy, half-assed approach to life. But, what if we can use this approach as a catalyst to overcome paralyzing inertia that keeps us from taking actions that we need and/or want very much to take? You want desperately to draw but your effort will never compete with DaVinci or Frida Kahlo? Then draw stick figures and enjoy that you expressed a creative urge desperate to be set free by your inner spirit. You cannot construct a jaw-dropping bird house that will grace to beloved park next to the Town Hall? Then grab some glue, paint, and popsicle sticks and have fun building one that will provide a wonderful home for that family of chickadees who want to live in your backyard.
I would suggest to you that the vast majority of tasks you feel an urge to try are definitely worth doing poorly rather than not at all.
Think about it.
You are loved – peace!
P.S. - I would ask that all of you who pray, meditate, or simply try to send positive vibes to those you know in need of them to please do so for my family and me. Over the Christmas holiday I became aware of a medical and medical related situation in my life that is causing a lot of stress and fear. Any and all positive spiritual energy you can send my way is very much appreciated. Thank you.
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