“Perfect is the enemy of good.” – Voltaire
Humanity has always feared the unknown. It’s what makes us human. I believe that when someone is on the precipice of something new and uncharted, whether that be pursuing a new career, standing up for something that you believe in, or anything in between, there will be times when you’re faced with opposition that can feel like fear. I can personally attest to this sentiment, especially as it relates to our work at Brightmark.
Since we embarked on this ambitious venture, we’ve learned a lot and experienced ups and downs on this journey. Nonetheless, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. Why? Because some of our most challenging moments have been our best learning experiences. I believe the progress we have made on our plastics renewal and renewable natural gas projects outweighs any challenges or opposition, or fear of the unknown we have endured.
I strongly believe in the sentiment “don’t let great get in the way of good” because it’s critical not to lose focus on the bigger picture. We can often get stuck in a rut when things don’t go as planned or work perfectly, and it’s imperative to remember that learning is a process. We can’t get to “great” until we can achieve “good.”
Here is what I consider to be solid representations of great stepping in the way of good.
Uncharted Territory Will Always Have Challenges
Like the traditional hero’s journey, individuals exploring uncharted territory will always encounter challenges. How can you prepare for what you cannot predict? Fear of the unknown also creates opposition. How does one seek to understand something with no previous threshold to compare?
It’s critical to remember that while charting unexplored territory can bring challenges, accomplishing something new makes it worth it.
Make Your Voice Heard
We are fortunate to live in a country founded on democracy—giving power to the people. It is up to us to make the decisions that best serve our communities and nation. One of the most critical ways to make a difference is by participating in local and state governments. Vote for what you’re passionate about, be active in your community, and make your voice heard.
The Road Less Traveled is Better With Friends
Teamwork does make the dream work. When you have supportive family, friends, and colleagues, taking the road less traveled isn’t that difficult.
Don’t Fear Being Wrong
Making a mistake can be one of the best opportunities to learn. While not every mistake is reasonable, it provides insight into the result of our actions and gives us a way of moving forward.
Consistency is Key
No significant feat is achieved without consistency. Rome was not built in a day, as they say. Some of the most extraordinary things in this world took time—a lot of it. Staying consistent makes it much more feasible for you to accomplish your journey.
Whether you relate to great getting in the way of good or experience something similar at some point in your career, remember that life is at its best when you work to accomplish what you’ve set out to do—especially when the result turns good into extraordinary.
With goodness in mind,
Bob Powell
