Implement Now Perfect Later – Smart Business Thinking

Implement Now Perfect Later – Smart Business Thinking

In a conversation with Alison Carroll, of Alison Carroll Coaching (client) , an Arlington based business coach about a book she read, she admitted, “The funny thing is that I have been working on an article on the book. It’s late because I’ve been trying to get it just perfect.” 

A “writer’s block” for many CEOs is the compelling need to perfect everything from communications to taking action. Don’t get me wrong I’m not saying every output shouldn’t reflect excellence.

 It should make sense but an English or a management professor is not grading it. It holds back revenue growth.

Here's some instances to illustrate the impasse:·      

• Mental anguish over language such as should it be everybody or everyone
• What shade blue should we use in the logo
• It’s not ready, it needs a finishing touch

The reasons for delay are endless.

• A solo business owner who wanted to start speaking before business groups was frozen in inaction because he constantly changed "improve" the presentation
• A CEO wants to improve working conditions yet business is too good to take the time
• Partners debate over bringing a senior associate into the partnership so long that another firm makes an offer.

The quest for perfection hinders action and, as a result, progress. Be correct but agonize over the minute details?

Bottom Line?

Stop worrying about minutia.
Make sure your communications are effective – it doesn’t have to be letter perfect.
Complete that proposal or other projects although there might be a more perfect word to use.

Jim is an expert business coach and a respected advisor to management and financial executives. He draws on his long-term business leadership background to help CEOs grow revenue, increase profits, improve performance.