BONUS Reason Why You’re Stuck!

The BONUS reason why you may be stuck is actually the BIGGEST reason for many of us . . . perfection.

It’s the excuse that we’re waiting for the perfect timing, the perfect set of circumstances, the perfect idea to strike like a bolt of lightning. We want to have all our ducks in a perfect row before we take action.

But are we missing out?

Consider the decision to start a family. If we waited for the perfect time in our lives and careers, made sure we had the perfect amount of money, and ensured we lived in the perfect house . . . no one would ever have children. Because there is no perfect time!

But somehow we find a way to make it work.

Anytime you take action, especially if it’s something new or scary, there is a risk. You are taking a leap of faith. It’s the faith and confidence that you’re strong enough to handle the outcome . . . whatever it is.

It has been well-documented that men and women handle risk differently. Women tend to be more risk-averse while men may be bigger risk-takers.

Let’s use a simple job application as an example. A woman will read the job description and only apply if she has 100% of the requirements and qualifications listed. A man, on the other hand, feels confident enough to throw his hat in the ring with only a 60% match.

Women want to be an expert first and then pursue an opportunity. Men grab the opportunity first and then work on becoming an expert.

Unfortunately, many women are “stuck” in the job search process because they are looking for perfection . . . a 100% perfect match. For the record, no one will ever have 100% of any job description, so stop waiting.

Women can also be holding themselves back from plum projects, promotions, key assignments, and major opportunities because they don’t think it’s “perfect”. Meanwhile someone else is grabbing that opportunity and sees great potential in imperfection.

For a long time I was stuck waiting for the perfect time to write my book. It was as if I was going to check my calendar one day, and magically there was going to be a blocked out chunk of time with an arrow saying, “Perfect time to write your book.” Needless-to-say, that magic arrow never appeared. There was no perfect time to get started . . . I just had to start.

Think back . . . some of the best adventures you’ve ever had were when things didn’t go perfectly or according to plan. You had the time of your life when the unexpected happened. Don’t let perfection stand in the way of progress! Release the myth that perfection even exists and embrace the fact that imperfection can be even better.