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In my opinion, there are two types of perfect. The first…

“In my opinion, there are two types of perfect. The first is the type that seems so obvious and intuitive to you and everyone else that in a perfect world it would simply be considered standard; but, in reality, in our flawed world, what should be considered standard is actually so rare that it has…” quote by B.J. Novak
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““In my opinion, there are two types of perfect. The first is the type that seems so obvious and intuitive to you and everyone else that in a perfect world it would simply be considered standard; but, in reality, in our flawed world, what should be considered standard is actually so rare that it has to be elevated to the level of “perfect.” This is the type of perfect that makes you and most other people think, “Why isn’t everything like this? Why is it so hard to find …” a black V-neck cotton sweater, or a casual non-chain restaurant with comfortable booths, etc.—“that is just exactly the way everyone knows something like this should be?” “Perfect,” we all say with relief when we finally find something like this that is exactly as it should be. “Perfect. Why was this so hard to find?” The other type of perfect is the type you never could have expected and then could never replicate.””

B.J. Novak

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Perfect can be ordinary, widely‑accepted standards that are actually rare, or an unexpected, unrepeatable phenomenon.

In simple terms: Two kinds of perfect: common but rare, and unique but unreproducible.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and appreciate both ordinary excellence and rare brilliance.

Themes

perfection expectations rarity appreciation

Mood

reflective thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • shopping for everyday items
  • design evaluation
  • creative brainstorming
  • customer experience analysis

Key Concepts

social norms cognitive bias uniqueness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you distinguish between a true standard and a fleeting novelty?
  • What steps can you take to replicate an unexpected success?
A Different Perspective

Rare standards may be hard to maintain across contexts.

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