When You're Perfectionist

Are you obstructing progress because you insist on perfecting every detail of even the most routine tasks? Perfection doesn’t necessarily result in a better product. Here are some ways to beat this bad habit. Recognize appropriate limits. Evaluate what really is necessarily to do a task “right.” Delegate wisely. If you give others step-by-step instructions on how you want a task done, you’ll waste time and stifle their initiative. Instead, describe the result that you want and check with your subordinates regularly to see that they’re on track. Balance costs and results. If you compare the cost of a good result with the cost of perfection, you may find that you can’t justify the added time and effort. Ask yourself if you’re perfecting your work for yourself and for your company. If the former, reconsider your approach.