Let It Be Messy: The Case for Imperfect Action

I used to think that if I planned enough, prepared enough, and thought things through just right, life would unfold in a neat, orderly fashion. But life, as it turns out, is far more art than science.

It’s messy. Chaotic. Unpredictable.

And for the longest time, I resisted that. I wanted control, certainty, a clear roadmap. I thought success—whether in work, relationships, or creativity—meant figuring everything out before taking the first step. But the more I tried to hold on, the more I felt stuck.

What I’ve been learning (slowly, stubbornly) is that the best things happen when we allow a little mess. When we start the thing before we feel ready. When we let conversations unfold instead of scripting them in our heads. When we give ourselves permission to try, fail, and adjust instead of waiting for the perfect conditions.

Why We Fear the Mess

We’ve been conditioned to believe that preparation is the key to success. And while there’s value in thoughtful planning, perfectionism often masquerades as productivity when, in reality, it’s just procrastination in disguise.

Psychologists call this analysis paralysis—when we overthink decisions to the point where we take no action at all. (Harvard Business Review, 2017) Research has shown that perfectionism is a major contributor to burnout, stress, and even reduced creative output (Curran & Hill, Psychological Bulletin, 2019).

The Science of Imperfect Action

There’s a reason “done is better than perfect” has become a cliché in entrepreneurial and creative spaces—it’s backed by research. Studies in behavioral psychology show that taking action—any action—builds confidence and motivation. (Lally et al., European Journal of Social Psychology, 2010)

James Clear, in Atomic Habits, explains that habits are built through small, repeated actions, not perfect execution. Whether it’s writing, launching a business, or pursuing a personal goal, progress is made through iteration, not perfection.

Embracing the Mess in Your Work and Life

So how do we get comfortable with the inevitable messiness of progress?

  1. Shift from "perfect" to "experiment" – Instead of thinking, I need to get this right, try thinking, I’m testing this out. This reduces fear and encourages action.
  2. Create before you critique – Author Anne Lamott’s idea of the “shitty first draft” (Bird by Bird, 1994) applies to everything—not just writing. Let things be rough at first.
  3. Let mistakes be data, not disasters – Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Mistakes teach.
  4. Set a timer and start – The Zeigarnik Effect suggests that once we start something, our brains want to finish it. Just getting started reduces mental resistance. (Journal of Experimental Psychology, 1927)

A Final Thought

There is freedom in showing up imperfectly. In creating before we have all the answers. In trusting that clarity comes not before we begin, but in the act of beginning.

So here’s my reminder to you (and to myself): let it be messy. The best stories, the most meaningful work, and the biggest breakthroughs often come from the moments we didn’t have perfectly planned.

Because life? It’s meant to be lived, not just figured out.

Want to Dive Deeper? Here Are Three Books and TED Talks to Check Out

📖 Books to Read:

  1. The Creative Act: A Way of Being – Rick Rubin
    • A beautifully written meditation on creativity and the messy, nonlinear nature of making meaningful work.
  2. The Gifts of Imperfection – Brené Brown
    • A powerful book on embracing vulnerability, letting go of perfectionism, and living wholeheartedly.
  3. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear – Elizabeth Gilbert
    • A joyful and inspiring look at how to embrace curiosity, face fears, and take creative risks.

🎥 TED Talks to Watch:

  1. "The Power of Vulnerability" – Brené Brown
    • One of the most-watched TED Talks of all time, exploring how vulnerability and imperfection make us stronger.
  2. "Start With Why" – Simon Sinek
    • A brilliant talk on how finding your purpose (rather than chasing perfection) leads to success.
  3. "Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator" – Tim Urban
    • A hilarious and insightful breakdown of why we procrastinate and how to push past it.
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