“The best is the enemy of the good.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“The best is the enemy of the good.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s warning against perfectionism and the risks of striving for unattainable ideals. He suggests that the pursuit of “the best” often prevents us from appreciating or completing what is already “good.” In seeking perfection, we may delay progress, overlook achievable goals, or abandon valuable outcomes because they fall short of an ideal.
In modern contexts, this principle resonates in various fields, from personal development to project management. For instance, in business or creative endeavors, excessive refinement can lead to missed opportunities, overextended deadlines, or wasted resources. This concept, echoed in phrases like “done is better than perfect,” highlights the importance of balancing ambition with practicality.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in technology development. Over-engineering a product in pursuit of perfection can delay its release and make it less competitive, while a “good enough” version might succeed in addressing users’ needs. Voltaire’s quote serves as a timeless reminder to value progress and practical success over the elusive pursuit of flawlessness.
