Doing things freely and navigating imprecisely can be daunting. This flexibility, often misconstrued as inconsistency, is, in fact, an imperative skill, especially in the unpredictable arena of startups and for solo entrepreneurs.
What I term as "doing things freely" is synonymous with embracing the unpredictable, the ability to incorporate imprecision. Many of us are trained, perhaps by the nature of traditional work environments, to prioritize precision. Here are some common traps:
1. Rigidly Following Plans: Once we've carved a path, our inclination is to walk it unwaveringly. This "stick-to-the-plan" approach might feel like the safe choice. But what if the plan is flawed? This ties back to the concept of the fast mind, as presented in "Thinking Fast and Slow". While this fast thinking streamlines daily tasks, it can hinder adaptability in a startup setting.
2. Avoiding Change: We are hardwired to favor predictability. Yet, in the entrepreneurial journey, change is not just constant but often beneficial. Avoiding course correction because of fear can cost time, resources, and sometimes the entire venture.
3. Seeking Constant Closure: Our innate desire to see tasks to completion can be detrimental. Sometimes, the pursuit of the final 1% drains disproportionate energy and resources. Recognize when it's more advantageous to let go and shift focus.
4. Awaiting Perfection: Waiting for all uncertainties to clear before making a move? That moment might never come. True, some level of certainty is comforting, but in the dynamic world of startups, waiting for all variables to align may mean missed opportunities.
Recognizing these tendencies is step one. The world is always in flux, and even more so in the business landscape. Therefore, embracing imprecision is not a choice but a necessity.
So, how can one fine-tune this skill?
1. Adaptability Over Set Rules: Sometimes, rules need bending, or even breaking. Think about a river flowing around rocks, adjusting its course, but ultimately reaching its destination. Similarly, as entrepreneurs, we should possess the ability to change our strategies. The key isn't about abandoning your vision but reshaping the path towards it.
2. Value Vision & Roadmap: While day-to-day tasks demand attention, your vision and broader roadmap are the lifelines of your venture. It's easy to get lost in immediate tasks, but always recall the bigger picture.
3. Moderation Over Exhaustion: Pushing relentlessly might seem admirable, but it can lead to quick burnouts. Startups require a marathon mindset, not a sprint. It's about understanding when to push hard and when to step back and recharge. This rhythm or ebb and flow are intrinsic to maintaining not only mental well-being but also ensuring sustained creativity and productivity.
4. Embrace Uncertainty: Perfection is elusive, often impossible. Instead of waiting for perfect clarity, use principles like the 80/20 rule. Remember, sometimes the fog only clears once you've started moving.
In summary, while traditional work environments might favor precision, the startup and solopreneur journey is different. It's filled with uncertainties and imprecisions. However, instead of viewing these as challenges, see them as opportunities. Opportunities to adapt, to learn, and to grow. In this unpredictable journey, your ability to incorporate imprecision might just be your most valuable asset.
