We are constantly chasing perfection. It’s a hallmark of the profession. As a result, we dwell on things. We start with big things (every way this argument can be debunked) and then small (every comma perfectly placed). We strive for — and claw at — what we think perfection looks like.
Herein lies the problem: it’s just an idea. It’s not real. A mirage, really. And the more we chase the illusion of water in the desert, the further away we end up from our real destination.
We just keep going. “One more cite,” we whisper. Eyes bloodshot from staring at a computer screen for far too long. “Just one more and the motion is perfect.” Our fingers clicking through cases we pretend we haven’t seen already. “I’ll be done soon.” We’re not lying because soon is subjective.
We just keep going until we have no choice but to present the work product to the recipient - to leave this metaphorical desert and prepare to traverse the next. If we can muster up the strength to give it a final glance, we will inevitably notice something that doesn’t read quite right. A word that could be changed. A comma placement that feels off. A paragraph that might make more sense on the next page. And like that, perfection has alluded us yet again.
This chase for perfection is taxing both fiscally and mentally. Talking in dollars and cents, the client feels it. Every minute we spend running for the fantasy has a real world cost. Unless it’s truly moving the needle, it’s likely unnecessary and a waste.
Mentally, we feel it. Every time we try to run across the sand our pace slows a bit. We get tired. We get anxious. And that anxiety builds and builds because it’s getting harder and harder finish the task and to finally find perfection. Eventually, burn-out.
Now I’m not advocating for lackluster work. Client’s do deserve great (or good-enough if that’s what they are looking for). All I’m saying is to stop chasing the illusion.
this is also such a common directive, to produce perfect work, to junior associates early on and takes a negative toll over time for associates who are already anxious perfectionists(ie, a lot of them). i understand the impulse to stress that to new associates, under the guise of “training” and wanting to ensure new associates take their work seriously, but the execution is just another example of poor management by lawyers