Why do people over-research? It's often rooted in a fear of failure, a drive for perfection, and a false sense of productivity. We want to do things right the first time and not mess up, or we're looking for proof to support what we already think should be right. The internet also makes it incredibly easy to get lost in an endless rabbit hole, where algorithms feed you more of the same, making you feel like you're working when you're not.

How do you know when you have information overload? You feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and like there’s no end in sight. You start to feel like the more you learn, the further away you get from your goal because the "goalposts" keep moving. You get brain fatigue, analysis paralysis, and become demotivated to the point where you're stuck and not doing anything.

What are some solutions to overcome over-researching? First, set a limit on your research time whether it's one day or two. Then, adopt a "70% rule," meaning you don't need to know everything, just have a general idea or the "gist" of each phase. Third, embrace the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) model; get something started, put it out there, and learn from the feedback you receive. Finally, create a feedback loop to make steady improvements based on real-world results.

How can you maintain control of your research? Instead of letting the research dictate what you're looking for, you must be in control. Have a clear list of what you need before you start. This intentionality helps you check off boxes and focus only on the information that is directly relevant to your goals, preventing you from getting sidetracked by all the other fancy bells and whistles.

Is consistent motion more important than perfect execution? Yes. You won't get the necessary feedback to improve until you start. Not starting looks terrible. You have to begin and get feedback and criticism to grow. A wise man once said, it's not about perfect execution, it's about consistent motion.

How can you apply this thinking to a new project? Set a hard deadline for the project to be up and running. For example, 90 days. Dedicate the first couple of weeks to research. Then, use the MVP model to test an idea. You can start with a few options, see what works, and then double down on the one that yields the best results. This allows you to start and get feedback, rather than remaining stuck in the planning phase.

Watch the full episode at https://youtu.be/-CIQFpRfxKA and read more in THE ASCENT | 017.