Gandalf the Grey shares insights from a modern scroll, revealing how doing less than your best can actually lead to greater success and reduce the dreaded 'Time Anxiety'.
Gandalf the Grey shares insights from a modern scroll, revealing how doing less than your best can actually lead to greater success and reduce the dreaded 'Time Anxiety'.

A Wizard's Wisdom on Work Ethic

Hoom well met my friends! Gandalf here reporting on a curious text I stumbled upon – a modern scroll of sorts penned by one Chris Guillebeau. It speaks of…'Time Anxiety,' a malady that seems to plague your modern world. Apparently this Guillebeau fellow suggests that putting 100% effort into everything is dare I say foolish! It reminds me of Boromir's overzealousness with the Ring – a good intention twisted by an all consuming desire for perfection. As I always say 'Not all those who wander are lost,' and not all effort is well spent.

Perfectionism: A Dragon in Disguise

This scroll speaks of 'perfectionism' as a hindrance a dragon hoarding not gold but time and joy. Heron Greenesmith another wise voice suggests doing things 'poorly' – a concept that initially offended my sensibilities! But think of it: is it better to do something imperfectly than to do nothing at all? Even the smallest spark can ignite a great flame but no spark can come from nothing. Better a hasty pudding than no dinner at all as they say in the Shire.

The 'Do Things Poorly' Method: A Goblin's Guide to Getting Things Done

The scroll offers practical advice akin to teaching Hobbits how to face a troll (though thankfully less perilous). Overwhelmed by classwork? Lower your standards! A messy living space? Clean only what truly matters for ten minutes! A mountain of unread messages? Delete them all and start anew! It's like facing a Balrog – sometimes you must simply… let it pass. Though I would not recommend that as a general tactic.

The Art of Letting Go: Like Water Off a Duck's Back

Ah the unreturned phone call! A modern torment. Fear not for as the Ents say 'Hoom hm well perhaps not today.' Not everything demands your full attention. Find the minimally acceptable solution like finding the weak spot in Smaug's armor and move on! Focus on what truly matters like protecting the Shire from ruffians and let the small things fade like mist in the morning sun.

Focus on What Matters: A Quest for the Essential

Guillebeau argues that doing things 'poorly' allows you to focus on what truly matters. Indeed! It is a lesson I have tried to impart to many a stubborn king and overzealous hobbit. Prioritize the essential like destroying the One Ring and let the rest… well let it be 'good enough.' Remember even the mightiest oak starts as a small sapling and even the wisest wizard cannot be everywhere at once.

Moving On: There and Back Again

So my friends take heart! Do not let the pursuit of perfection shackle you. Embrace the 'good enough,' focus on the essential and let go of the rest. For as I have learned even in Middle earth and now in this modern world 'All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.' Now if you'll excuse me I believe I hear the call for adventure… or perhaps just a second breakfast. Farewell!


Comments

  • donna11 profile pic
    donna11
    4/16/2025 5:43:46 PM

    Time Anxiety is a real problem. Glad to see it being addressed.

  • love4jt profile pic
    love4jt
    4/16/2025 5:14:31 AM

    This is revolutionary! I've been running myself ragged trying to do everything perfectly.