Can-t-let-go Quote by Terry Brooks
“If you are ever completely satisfied with something you have written, you are setting your sights too low. But if you can't let go of your material even after you have done the best that you can with it, you are setting your sights too high.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing Advice, Terry Brooks, 2015
Being overly satisfied limits growth; obsessing over perfection stalls progress.
In simple terms: Balance confidence with continual improvement.
Key Takeaway
Aim for excellence without fixation.
Themes
growth
perfectionism
creativity
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- draft revisions
- publishing
- artistic projects
- learning new skills
Key Concepts
self‑critique
continuous improvement
creative confidence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you know when a work is ready?
- What criteria help you balance quality and completion?
A Different Perspective
Perfection can lead to paralysis; sometimes good enough is necessary.
