One maxim I like is: “just get started.” (Sometimes known as the “Fire! Aim” approach.) There are times when another maxim, like “measure twice, cut once,” seems better, though. How to resolve the tension?

In this case, there are implicit factors that underlie the maxim. By being aware of the underlying factors, you can recognize when a rule of thumb should be broken.

Without further ado, factors to consider for the maxim “just get started”:

1. Is it reversible? If so, that’s a point in favour of just getting started.

For example, you might be hesitant to take a class if you think it means taking the whole thing. If, however, you can stop going at any point, that’s a point in favour of signing up.

2. Can you start small? If so, that’s a point in favour of just getting started.

This is similar to 1. If you can start small, it often means you can refine your approach in iterations, in effect “measuring” as you go, or as in 1. decide to quit at a relatively early point.

(Note: beware of slippery slopes. A slippery slope is where the structure of something is such that it’s actually deceptively difficult to reverse something. If you’re an employee, allowing a boss to use the Puppy Dog Close on you is one example.)

3. Is there a large amount of uncertainty which can be remedied by getting on the ground? If so, that’s a point in favour of just getting started.

This combines with 2.

4. Is it difficult to get a good initial idea of what’s involved by doing a small amount of initial research? If so, that’s a point in favour of just getting started, as the measuring (”measure twice”) will be difficult to implement at the very beginning.

(In starting a business, I favour “just getting started,” but in that context I mean “do initial research, but for weeks instead of months, and then start getting feedback by actually starting.”)

5. Is there ‘decision paralysis’? (trying to make a perfect choice causes ‘no choice’) If so, that’s a point in favour of not worrying so much about getting it perfect in the beginning, and instead focusing on just getting started.

By understanding what lies behind a rule of thumb or maxim, you can know when you are in a situation where the underlying logic suggests that you break the maxim. Often, what distinguishes an expert from a novice is those who know when to break the easily learnt principles or rules.