Better vs. done

Seth Godin

by Seth Godin

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article "Better vs. Done" challenges the traditional mindset of completing projects as quickly as possible, emphasizing instead the importance of continuous improvement. Instead of viewing tasks as finished products, the piece advocates for a commitment to ongoing refinement and learning. This approach involves shipping updates regularly, adapting based on feedback, and focusing on relentless improvement rather than perfection. The traditional "done" mentality is rooted in school systems and production environments where deadlines are met, and work is handed over without further refinement. However, this mindset can hinder growth by limiting opportunities for innovation and adaptation. In contrast, the "better" approach involves shipping updates every day, learning from what works, and improving upon what doesn’t. This method requires persistence and adaptability, as it avoids the trap of viewing projects as final products. The article highlights that never-ending projects can pile up quickly, but they also offer a competitive advantage by fostering innovation and continuous progress. By embracing this mindset, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and deliver better results over time. The key challenge lies in maintaining the discipline to pursue improvement consistently, even when it feels like there’s no endpoint. For readers interested in business and marketing, understanding the value of continuous improvement is crucial. In today’s fast-paced world, settling for "done" can lead to stagnation, while striving for "better" drives innovation and growth. This approach not only enhances product quality but also builds resilience against market changes and customer demands. Ultimately, the article encourages businesses to adopt a mindset that prioritizes growth and learning over mere completion, ensuring long-term success in an ever-evolving landscape.

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Originally published on Seth Godin on 2/15/2026