19/10/2025
He stared at the proposal for hours.
Everything looked almost right, but not quite.
The data wasn’t complete. The strategy needed refinement. The timing felt off.
So, he did what most people do when fear disguises itself as logic.
He said, “Let’s wait.”
Weeks later, another team launched first.
Same idea. Same vision.
Different outcome.
That was the day he learnt one of leadership’s hardest truths:
you’re never fully ready; if you wait to be, you’ll always be late.
This situation is common in organisations, projects, and personal growth. We often hesitate to act, waiting for certainty, but clear insight rarely appears beforehand. Usually, it’s through taking steps that our understanding improves, not the reverse.
When we launched that transformative project in my organisation, the plan wasn't perfect. The models were still developing, the risk assessments weren’t flawless, and we knew adjustments would be needed. But we proceeded anyway, carefully, intentionally, imperfectly.
That initial imperfect start laid the groundwork for everything that succeeded later.
Let me be clear: this isn’t a call to abandon preparation.
Preparation matters. Diligence matters.
But there’s a point where preparation becomes procrastination, where “just one more review” turns into a shield against fear.
You can never be over-prepared for what you haven't done.
And you’ll never be entirely ready for something that’s meant to challenge you.
Perfection feels safe, but it’s costly. It takes time, momentum, and sometimes the very opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Readiness isn’t a box to tick, but a muscle you strengthen. You grow stronger with each uncertain step, imperfect decision, and moment you move despite discomfort.
So, if you’re standing on the edge of something new, a venture, a role, a calling and your mind keeps whispering “not yet,” pause and listen. Consider the voice, but don’t let fear disguise itself as wisdom. Sometimes hesitation is caution… but sometimes it’s fear trying to keep you safe from growth.
You don’t get ready before you begin. You get prepared because you have started.
Reflection:
What if the “perfect moment” you’re waiting for is already here, just disguised as fear?
He stared at the proposal for hours. Everything looked almost right, but not quite. The data wasn’t complete. The strategy needed refinement. The timing felt off. So, he did what most people do when fear disguises itself as logic. He said, “Let’s wait.” Weeks later, another team launched fir...
