Work In Progress
Unnecessary Premature Optimization
Finding the most effective path before you even know if you need to take it.
Introduction
I wonder just how often I think up and research the best way to do something, only for it to never be tested.
I suppose this isn't the worst problem to have. Yet we are faced with a plethora of 'top 10 tips for doing _____ better' videos and articles. A sea of discussions on approach and technique. Yet, if you were to just do the damn thing and learn from your mistakes, you would surely be further along than those paralyzed by the endless options of approach.
Yet, optimization can be in it self entertaining. It's like a game to find the best route, to use the least amount of moves to win the game. Surely there is some definite answer in all that is infinite on the 'best' approach. But, it is a game with no end. It can be played until the cost of optimizing has vastly outweighed its benefits.
Regressive Attention
Optimization requires an attention to regressions. Parts or processes which tend to decay or otherwise slow down an overall process. I have found that a constant attention to what is not working 'well enough' to be nearly as bad as constantly focusing on the negatives in life. At some point, it becomes demoralizing and deprives you the satisfaction of the positive things in life that work well enough.
To clarify, I do not think that this attention to inefficiencies to be in it, and of itself a bad thing. In fact, this attention often leads to better end results. I simply think its important to appreciate that this way of thinking can be immoderate if not checked.
Meta-Regression
There is an irony in optimizations that occasionally lead to a meta-regression. A point whereby the process of continually optimizing fails to approach a useful endpoint.
Lifestyle Optimization
Minimalism
Intermittent Fasting
When is it good enough?
For some there are standards. When they are met, they can go home and enjoy their couch. For others there are no formal standards, and simply a feeling which may or may not ever be satisfied. Then there are those whos hunger for efficient can not be satiated.
I occasionally find myself in the latter group. For some reason, I can't help but think that there has to be some 'better way'. That however I am doing it, either isn't working properly or fails to reach some dream of perfection.