One thing I've gotten really good at over the years is using time in terms of how it affects my product-making process.
Back in the day, when I was greener, I used to rush things, not just for the sake of rushing to get them out of the door — but I would get to the "being happy with it" stage way too soon.
In other words, I fell too quickly in love with my creation just to notice discrepancies once my designs were delivered to the client.
99% of the time, my clients didn't care OR didn't know any better.
But I knew.
And that feeling ate me inside.
Not trying to sound pedantic about it, but giving "things" the time they need to shine and come through, is paramount.
I think having kids taught me this. Maybe mindful meditation did it, which I practice regularly. Or maybe the lessons and failures?
Who knows.
It's a combination of things, for sure.
Whatever it is — now I give "things" time.
In other words, I'm in their timeline — not the other way around.
I am the steward and the facilitator of my creations.
Not some "leader" that makes things happen.
Rather, someone that lets things happen.
And to quote one of my basketball coaches from way back:
"Rush slowly" — he would say.
Not too slow, not too fast.
Be in a hurry, but slowly.
Mindfully.
Until the thing I am making is just ripe for the picking.
Specifically speaking: If I am working on a feature, I like to let it sleep for a day or so. The next day, my eyes usually see things a bit clearer — so I continue improving it. Until I keep coming back to it and realize that I am spinning the wheels and there's nothing left to add, fix, or take away.
It's not really some process set in stone.
Just a "feel" for it I developed over the years.
And it does feel good.
Knowing that what I felt while making it — is probably what my customers will feel while using it.
If I felt rushed, they will feel rushed.
If I felt at ease, they, too, will feel that.
And nothing will help us achieve that like the due time in needs.
