Experience Costs Time

Do you often feel stuck, like no matter what you do it isn’t perfect enough? Maybe you find a small flaw and then scrap the entire thing. In this episode of the podcast, we unpack why we chase absolute perfection and why it can quickly turn into “I give up.”

We explore how perfectionism sneaks up on us, especially if we’ve got dyslexia or ADHD. We also discuss how it affects motivation and pressure. If you’ve ever repeated the cycle of starting, doubting, and then giving up, this episode is for you.

The Trap of Perfectionism

It starts with an innocent desire to do your best. You want to create something remarkable, so you put in extra time and energy. Then, a tiny part of you whispers: “It must be flawless.”

When that voice gets louder, it becomes a harsh critic that zooms in on every minor fault. It’s a tricky loop: you try to fix mistakes to feel good, only to discover new flaws that lead to more frustration.

In the episode, I share a hard truth:

“No matter how many times I tweak it, part of me still thinks it’s not good enough.”

This pressure often drives us to quit before we’ve finished. The fear of messing up can overpower our urge to keep going. Recognising that pattern is the first step in breaking free.

Why We Keep Trying to Get It Right

We might wonder why perfectionism has such a big hold over us. It’s rooted in our brain wiring, especially if you’re a big-picture thinker who spots endless possibilities. If you can imagine a perfect outcome, it’s tempting to chase that instead of focusing on steady progress.

On top of that, society praises perfection. When you see others share their “perfect” highlights, you might feel compelled to match their polished results. This can trigger anxiety that fuels the cycle all over again.

Rather than fight your nature, it can help to work with your strengths. If you’re a creative who sees countless angles, try to embrace one angle at a time. Design smaller goals. Celebrate partial wins. Let small successes build momentum.

Simple Ways to Step Away from the Edge

If you’re tired of starting projects that never see the light of day, some easy shifts can change your mindset:

• Define “finished” before you start, so you know where to stop.
• Break tasks into tiny steps, then finish one before moving on.
• Allow small flaws, and remind yourself that it’s still progress.
• Celebrate imperfect creations as proof you’re learning.

“Good enough” doesn’t mean you’re being lazy. It means you’re being practical by valuing action and learning. That’s where real growth happens.

Handling the Self-Critical Voice

That voice inside can be harsh. Acknowledge it, then ask yourself why it’s so loud. Often, it’s trying to protect you from feeling judged, especially if you’ve got dyslexia or ADHD and worry about being misunderstood.

If that voice flares up, you might try:

1. A quick breathing exercise to ground yourself.
2. Writing down a fear, then countering it with a truth. For example, if it says, “I’m useless,” reply with, “I’m learning each time I try.”
3. Sharing your latest creation with someone who understands. Positive feedback can help adjust that mental lens.

Practise being curious about your block rather than ashamed. If you realise your mind has veered into negative chatter, gently steer it back. Through repetition, you’ll learn to lessen its hold.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Again

Quitting might feel final, but it’s okay to pick up where you left off. In the episode, we discuss how taking a break is different from giving up. You’re allowed to pause, then return with fresh energy.

Instead of beating yourself up for “failing,” ask what you learned. Maybe the deadline was too short, or the checklist was too long. Adjust those conditions next time. Don’t let shame get in the way of another attempt.

Momentum can be built in tiny steps. Even if you walk away, come back and take one small action. It might be just enough to open the door to more possibilities.

• Identify what you can do in 10 minutes right now.
• Give yourself permission to rest, then return.
• Ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.

Key Takeaways

• Perfectionism creeps in, promising a flawless finish, but it can lead to burnout.
• Small, consistent actions trump grand but unfinished projects.
• Recognising your self-critic can help you shift to a kinder perspective.
• It’s never too late to revisit what you left behind.

Ready for more examples, insights, and encouragement? Listen to the full episode at the top of this page, and discover how to move past the feeling of “I quit” into real, meaningful progress.