Introduction

Getting things done is hard. Most people don’t do what they want to do, or have to do, mainly because of three reasons:

1. Lack of self belief
2. Lack of willingness
3. Analysis paralysis

The third one is for the perfectionists of the world, the overanalysers. If that’s you, keep reading.

If the fear of failure is the mother of procrastination, then perfectionism is the father.

This post covers…

1. ❓ What is Analysis Paralysis?
   1. ✍️ Definition
   2. 🏙️ Scenarios
   3. 🕳️ Why it's a problem
2. 🎯 Strategies to overcome the paralysis
3. 💭 Final thoughts

What is Analysis Paralysis?

Analysis paralysis is a situation where someone is unable to make a decision or take action because they are overthinking and analyzing too many options or details to consider, trying to find make everything perfect. This can happen when someone is faced with a complex problem, multiple choices, or a high-stakes decision, and they become so consumed with analyzing the options that they are unable to take action or make a decision. This can also happen when working on a project or when wanting to set goals and achieve them.
For example, when setting a goal, someone may become so focused on the specifics of how to achieve the goal that they lose sight of the bigger picture. They may spend too much time analyzing the pros and cons of different approaches or getting bogged down in the details, which can lead to a lack of progress or even abandonment of the goal altogether.

Similarly, when creating a routine, someone may become overwhelmed by the many different options for how to structure their day. They may spend too much time analyzing the optimal timing or order of tasks, and end up not taking any action at all.

In the productivity world, this is a common thing. People spend hours and hours searching for the best tools, the best app, the best system, the best routine... And instead of choosing one and seeing how it goes, they focus their energy on that. Watching videos on how to achieve your goals won't bring you any closer to achieving them if you don't actually take action!!!!

Some other examples could be a writer, who is so preoccupied with perfecting every sentence, paragraph, and chapter that they never finish their book, blog, script...; someone who wants to start exercising may spend too much time trying to make the perfect routine, that they never actually go to the gym; or even someone who wants to learn a new skill or subject may become so overwhelmed by the vast amount of information available that they never actually start.

As you probably noticed, these are all forms of procrastination. "I'll go the gym when I finish making my routine", "I'll buy the dress once i've looked at all the options"..., if you spend too much time analyzing and researching instead of taking action, all that planning and information will be for nothing. Additionally, when we are unable to make a decision or take action, we may feel stuck and unable to move forward, which can lead to a sense of hopelessness and helplessness which can be very discouraging.

Strategies to overcome the paralysis

Analysis paralysis can be a frustrating and stressful experience that can prevent us from making progress towards our goals. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help us overcome analysis paralysis and make decisions that align with our goals and values.

1. 📅 Set a deadline: Give yourself a specific deadline for making a decision or taking action. This will help you avoid overthinking and motivate you to actually do it and limit the time you spend "preparing" for it or analysing it.
2. 💥 Think of the worst possible outcome: Try to picture what would happen if you made the wrong decision or if you were unprepared. Thinking about the worst possible outcome can help us put things in perspective and realize that failure is not always catastrophic.
3. 🐢 Lower the bar: Trying to be perfect and setting unrealistic expectations will only make it harder for you to start taking action because you'll never be ready, the routine will never be good enough, the paragraph won't ever be perfect. In reality, perfection is not always attainable, and striving for it can be a major barrier to progress, especially when the point is to start.
4. ⏳ Remember most things aren't final: It's easy to get caught up in the idea that our decisions are final and unchangeable. However, it's important to remember that most decisions are not irreversible, and we can always make adjustments or change course if necessary. If something doesn't work, it can be changed.
5. 🏃‍♂️ Just take action: Often, the most effective way to conquer analysis paralysis is to simply begin. Taking action, no matter how small, can generate momentum and diminish the fear and uncertainty that comes with starting a new project. Instead of getting bogged down in endless planning or analysis, take the plunge and start making progress towards your goals. Remember, taking action is the first step towards achieving anything, and the more action you take, the more progress you'll make.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, analysis paralysis is a common problem that can prevent us from making progress towards our goals. Remember, taking action is the key to achieving anything, very few decisions are final and once you start, you can learn along the way.
Don't let the desire of being perfect go above the desire of being something.