In a world that often preaches the gospel of "perfection," it's easy to get caught in the trap of over-planning and under-doing. This idea of waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect idea, or the perfect execution can be paralyzing.

However, the truth, as illustrated by James Clear in "Atomic Habits," through Jerry Uelsmann's experiment at the University of Florida, is quite different. It's the action takers, those who prioritize quantity over painstaking perfection, who often find themselves ahead.

Uelsmann divided his photography class into two groups. One group's grade depended on the production of a single, flawless image. The other group was assessed based on the sheer quantity of photos they produced. Intuitively, one might think that the group focused on perfection would produce superior work.

However, the outcome was the opposite.

The Quantity group, through their prolific output, not only honed their skills more effectively but also produced the highest quality photographs. This experiment sheds light on a crucial aspect of learning and mastery: the importance of taking massive action.

In the realm of photography, as in life and business, it's those who are willing to make mistakes, learn from them, and continuously apply themselves who achieve excellence. Perfectionism, on the other hand, can lead to a crippling fear of failure, stalling progress before it even begins. The lesson here is profound yet simple. Success and mastery are not products of waiting for the perfect opportunity or spending an inordinate amount of time in preparation. They are the result of action, experimentation, and the willingness to make and learn from mistakes.

So, the next time you're hesitating to start a project, remember Uelsmann's experiment. Whether you're a budding photographer, entrepreneur, or creator, embrace the power of quantity. Shoot more photographs, launch more projects, write more drafts. It's through these actions, through this dedication to continuous practice, that the path to excellence is truly found. The pursuit of perfection might lead you to think you're safeguarding quality, but it's the courage to act, and act often, that will refine your skills and bring your best work to light.