Why You Should Stop Waiting for the Perfect Moment—You’re Always 'Winging It'

You walk into a new job or classroom, convinced everyone else has it together. Every small misstep feels like proof you aren’t ready, and you delay taking charge, speaking up, or launching your idea until you’re certain you’re as skilled as 'real experts.' Secretly, you’re waiting for a breakthrough—not just in knowledge but in confidence.

But peek behind the curtain in almost any profession or role, and you see the same story: the newspaper editor pacing, making up policy on the fly; the senior leader improvising in meetings; the parent calling friends just to ask what’s 'normal.' The truth is, everyone is always improvising. No one feels fully prepared, and everyone learns as they go. This is not a sign of weakness but the very nature of growth and accomplishment.

Research on the 'impostor phenomenon' shows that most people, especially high achievers, feel like frauds at times. Ironically, the only way through it is to act first and accumulate experience, learning as you go. In time, not only does your comfort grow, but you realize that constant improvisation is the rule, not the exception.

Identify one thing that matters to you—a job, friendship, or creative effort—you’ve been delaying because you think you’re not ready yet. Despite your doubts, take a small concrete step, whether it’s applying, calling, or drafting. Ask a mentor or peer about their most unprepared moments—you might be surprised how common uncertainty is. As you hit bumps or make mistakes, practice being kind to yourself and note what you’ve learned. Remember, you don’t have to wait until you’re perfect; starting imperfectly is the way everyone builds real skill. Don’t let the myth of readiness freeze your progress—wing it today.