over-optimize

in the corner of Twitter that i often frequent, the word “optimization” is used often.

the word optimization means:

an act, process, or methodology of making something (such as a design, system, or decision) as fully perfect, functional, or effective as possible (Merriam Webster)

i have few issues with the idea of optimizing anything and everything, but many issues with the concept of over-optimizing.

sure, i want the best out of all areas of my life: work, relationships with family and friends, my workouts, my coffees (pour over) and the list goes on and on…

but, i don’t want to ‘over-optimize’ them.

i want to be sure i do so in a way that is natural or organic. i don’t want to spend time getting angry at moments when the optimization wasn’t the most optimal.

i don’t want to lose focus on the natural beauty of hiccups, setbacks, hold-ups, disappointments or delays.

i’m typing this from my laptop, in the backyard, hunched over some footrest that i’m using as a desk. clearly i’m not in the most optimal position. but, the very beauty around me is some that i won’t negotiate to lose – Roman (my dog) chewing on a bone beside me, the sound of a small waterfall in a pond and a few birds chirping.

now, it’s not ideal and there exists a different environment that may be considered more beautiful, but i will enjoy this beauty – right now.

so where am i going with this?

i don’t know.

i only imagined this concept about thirty minutes ago and started typing out my thoughts right away.

to conclude, i think that it is important to try and enjoy right now – sure, optimize like crazy, but try not to over-optimize.

i’ll work towards something new and different (optimizing), but be careful to not over-optimize.