Why 110% is never enough to succeed.

This is a phrase I hate. To be honest I've never liked it. Probably, because I am a realist and as cute and motivating as it may sound, everything has a max capacity and 100% is a tidy definition of that capacity. By definition, you cannot exceed a things maximum capacity, at least not without catastrophic results. I have a finite amount of energy, talent, resolve, and focus. Asking me to give a project 110% is like asking me to square a circle or at the very least, create catastrophic internal results.

If you think that I am just being pedantic and splitting hairs, let me get to my point. Aside from carelessly throwing such a useful definition as, “maximum capacity” to be sacrificed on the altar of desire for exaggerated and illusory results, I think it is dead wrong. This is simply my opinion and that is always what you will get in this forum, my bias, but I think a healthier way is the following.

Never, ever, ever, give any one task more than 80% of your attention, energy, or focus. To do otherwise is imbalance, it provides diminishing returns on your effort, it is not as effective, and frankly not very much fun. Don't get me wrong, I'm not recommending that surgeons try to be less focused or less attentive to their work while slicing out a tumor. I am recommending that everyone strive to be more “optimally” engaged in their tasks.

I think any standard we set for ourselves that is out of sync with reality is unhealthy. Whether or not the intent of of the phrase110% is understood, it's still disconnected from our actual abilities and can create unnecessary stress, false expectations, and an overall sense of being cattle. What are we a pack mule? Humans are not so simple, our worth is determined not by our outputs, (the tangible things we accomplish in the external world) but by the internal state of our souls. Consistent and repeatable external success will always flow out of an internal state of well being and balance.

How would it feel, if you were to develop a sense of when you were at your emotional or mental 80%? Just like your muscles can tell when you have been on the treadmill long enough or you have done enough dumbbell repetitions to get a satisfactory workout. Any more would lead to excessive muscle tearing, and longer recovery time. How is your mind any different? Try to become aware of the point when you have dealt with that difficult family member long enough for this week. Try to realize when you have set your sights too high at your job so that the overall quality of your work or home life suffers.

This also deals with perfectionism. Remember what our goals our, we are after success, not perfection. I have found that a project 80% complete is usually more than enough to succeed. Anymore and you are getting diminishing returns on your effort. I am in training for 65%. How effective can I be with my energies that my overall life is balanced, my goals are being met or exceeded, I have more fun, and I am less stressed? Find where your limit is and remember that what we are really after are feelings of contentment, accomplishment, and well being.

You only have 100% to work with. Harmony with your natural limits is the quickest and healthiest way to achieving your goals. Learn to be obstinate about your need to rest and reward yourself. Read a book, drink some coffee, play with your pets, or work in your garden. The illusory 30% be damned.