The Myth of Perfect Conditions

The myth of perfect conditions is the false belief that a specific and particular set of conditions are required for certain actions or endeavors to begin.

The most common hurdle that causes people to delay starting what they have set their mind to do, is often the false perception that certain conditions and circumstances need to be in place before they can begin.

Not only is this unrealistic, it is often also irrational.

By definition, starting something you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with means that the conditions will most likely be imperfect and even not ideal when you start them. We often lie to ourselves saying “I will begin doing X, once Y is in place”.

More often than not, these conditions are not actual, tangible or physical barriers that stop you. They are mental, perceived preferences that we reclassify into barriers. We do so to buy ourselves safety, comfort and time so that we may feel ready or less exposed.

But the truth is simple: conditions rarely improve before you take the first action or step. Any action, no matter how small, insignificant or imperfect, is what creates momentum that begins to present you with more options which build the very confidence, clarity, and opportunity you want.

While it is perfectly human to feel uncertain doing something new, what you should never do is accept the barrier you have told yourself. There is nothing more damaging than lying to yourself and accepting it without challenge.

At the very least, acknowledge it and instead of spending time trying to create the perfect conditions, rather use that to do the internal work required to debunk that misperceived barrier. Move first, even if it is messy and awkward. Move first and let the conditions catch up.