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Purpose of the Exercise
This method helps you recognize and consciously let go of excessive expectations. It supports bringing a sense of calm into your daily work life through the concept of “good enough” – without sacrificing responsibility or quality.
1. Choose an everyday task
Select a specific task from your professional routine where you often act perfectionistically. This could be writing an email, creating a presentation slide, or drafting a short text. Make sure it’s a manageable task where small imperfections aren’t likely to have major consequences.
2. Set a realistic time limit
Consider how much time the task should objectively take if you complete it efficiently and without excessive fine-tuning. Then set a clear time frame – for example, 15 minutes for an email instead of the usual 30 to 45 minutes. If needed, use a timer to help stick to the limit.
3. Complete the task with the goal: 80 percent
Work on the task with the intention of producing a good and functional result – but without the pressure to make it perfect. Ask yourself during the process: Is the message clear? Is the result sufficient for the recipient to proceed effectively? Does the extra effort truly improve the outcome – or is it just driven by internal pressure?
4. Reflect on your experience
After completing the task, take two to three minutes for a short reflection. How did it feel to be satisfied with 80 percent? What was challenging? Were there any external reactions – or was everything fine? What did you gain from consciously letting go of perfection – for example, time, energy, or inner peace?
5. Repeat the exercise regularly
Do the exercise once a week, ideally with different types of tasks. The more often you apply this principle, the easier it becomes to distinguish between meaningful quality standards and obstructive perfectionism.
Optional: Mistake-Friendly Journal
You can expand the exercise with a short journaling format. At the end of the day, note: What small imperfection did I allow today? How did I handle it? What was the actual impact? What did I learn from it?
This exercise strengthens your ability to self-regulate and helps you align high performance with self-care. You’ll start to notice: It’s often not the perfect result that matters most – but the constructive way you deal with your own standards.
