“Perfection is the enemy of the good.”
This aphorism warns against the paralyzing pursuit of perfection. Striving for excellence is commendable—but when perfection becomes the only acceptable outcome, it can prevent meaningful progress.
In many cases, a “good” solution, delivered in time and with efficiency, is far more valuable than an ideal one that never materialises.
The saying implies that perfectionism often leads to delay, indecision, or even failure to act.
It is especially relevant in politics, management, art, and everyday life—where endless tweaking, revising, or idealising can stall results.
Originally attributed to Voltaire (“Le mieux est l’ennemi du bien”), the phrase has found resonance across cultures and centuries.
In essence, it champions pragmatism over obsession, action over paralysis, and the wisdom of knowing when “good enough” is truly good enough.