Simon Sinek wrote, “The goal is not to be perfect by the end. The goal is to be better today.” 

I wonder – What do people think and feel when they read ‘inspirational tidbits’ like this? 

Do they think – “That’s so wise. Aiming for perfection is a recipe for disaster. Doing a bit better today is an admirable way to spend the day.”

Do they feel – “Wow. What a relief, no more worries about perfection or big hairy audacious goals. Now, I am comfortable facing today.”

***

On the ‘pro’ side of thinking…

Small goals are the right way to pave the road to ultimate success. Big hairy audacious goals worked for Jim Collins, however, BHAGs do not work for most people and - as Fannie Mae illustrated - they can be more about hogwash than hedgehogs. 

On the ‘con’ side of thinking…

Why not aim to be perfect in the end? Full mastery of the things you view to be meaningful and lie within your control…isn’t that an admirable life goal? And, isn’t achievement of an admirable life-goal a worthy way to invest your energy and spend your time? That said, most people are very comfortable – at least, they appear to be very comfortable – living lives that fall far short of ‘perfect in the end’. 

Questions & food for thought,,,

• When you stop to think about it, does it matter how other people live their lives? 
• Do you care if a person aims to be perfect in the end? 
• Would you be inspired to know a person is aiming to be perfect in the end? 
• Would you be put off to know a person is aiming to be perfect in the end?