Recently, I tried my hand at bookmaking. In the process, I not only learned to make a simple book but also learned an unexpected lesson on perfection and restraint.
A few months ago, I was searching for a pocket notebook for everyday use. I went in and out of several shops but couldn’t find the right one. I realised that pocket notebooks weren’t exactly pocket-friendly – they were either too fancy and expensive or simply not the right size. So I decided to make one by myself.
As I usually do when I cook a new recipe, I went online for tutorials. After watching a few good ones, I bought the essentials: a bundle of A4 paper, a needle and thread, and a thick sheet of paper for the cover. Back in my room, I gathered everything in front of me and watched the tutorial for one last time before I began. It was a straightforward process. In about twenty minutes, I had my first handmade pocket notebook.
It felt great. The notebook was exactly the size I wanted, and I realised I’d never need to shop for one again – I could simply make my own.
I should’ve stopped there.
But I didn’t.
I looked back at the tutorial and noticed my notebook didn’t look quite as beautiful as the one in the video. I thought, I can do better. So, I rearranged the pages, trimmed and polished the rough edges, and rounded the corners. Now it looked almost as perfect as the tutorial version. Then I glanced at the clock – two more hours had passed.
Suddenly, it didn’t feel so good anymore. I couldn’t believe I’d spent hours making a pocket notebook. I should’ve known when to stop. That’s something I’ve always struggled with – I tend to overdo things, chasing perfection.
Sometimes, striving for perfection is unnecessary. Know when you’ve crossed the finish line. There’s no need to keep pushing. Take the win, cherish the prize, and move on.
Big life lesson in simple words!