The best is the enemy of the good.
The quote, “The best is the enemy of the good,” by Voltaire encompasses a profound and timeless message. In its essence, it suggests that striving for perfection or the absolute best can sometimes hinder our progress or prevent us from appreciating what is already good enough. This sentiment holds immense significance, especially in a world where the pursuit of perfection can lead to dissatisfaction, self-doubt, and a constant feeling of falling short.
Voltaire’s words urge us to find a balance between aiming for excellence and recognizing and embracing the goodness or adequacy that already exists. It reminds us that there is value and fulfillment in acknowledging our achievements and finding contentment in them, rather than relentlessly seeking an unattainable ideal.
While the straightforward interpretation of this quote is thought-provoking in itself, let us explore a unique and unexpected philosophical concept that aligns with Voltaire’s wisdom. Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy, encourages individuals to focus on what they can control and accept what they cannot. By embracing this philosophy, we intertwine the concept of the enemy of the good with the powerful idea of virtue ethics and finding tranquility in acceptance.
Stoicism encourages us to reframe our perspective and examine our expectations through the lens of reason. When we become fixated on achieving the best, we become vulnerable to a ceaseless pursuit where our self-worth is contingent upon reaching an unattainable standard. This can lead to a perpetual cycle of dissatisfaction and unhappiness.
By embracing the teachings of Stoicism, we learn to value what is good and virtuous in our lives, recognizing and appreciating the efforts we have made. We focus on internal growth, character development, and maintaining a sense of equanimity. This shift in perspective allows us to find fulfillment in our present circumstances, freeing us from the chains of perpetual discontentment.
However, it is worth noting that this does not mean stoicism promotes complacency or mediocrity. Voltaire’s quote reminds us to strike a balance between striving for excellence and accepting the good. It urges us not to let the pursuit of perfection consume our lives or detract us from recognizing the inherent beauty in what is already present.
Applying this concept to various aspects of our lives, we find that it resonates with personal relationships, careers, and creative endeavors. In relationships, the desire for the perfect partner or flawless connection can blind us to the love, growth, and happiness that can be nurtured in imperfect, yet deeply meaningful connections. In our careers, an insatiable hunger for success can overshadow the joy and satisfaction that can be found in a job well done, regardless of its position on the ladder of achievement. Creatively, the pursuit of perfection can stifle the flow of ideas and hinder artistic expression, restricting the freedom to explore and create without fear of falling short.
By acknowledging the wisdom in Voltaire’s quote, we gain the power to break free from the constraints of an idealized future or unattainable perfection. We learn to celebrate our achievements, find contentment in what is good, and embrace the journey of continuous self-improvement without losing sight of the present moment.
In a world that often demands our best, constantly bombarding us with images of perfection and societal expectations, it is essential to remember that the best is not always the friend of contentment and fulfillment. Instead, we can embrace the enemy of the good, allowing ourselves to find solace and happiness in the appreciation of what we have accomplished and the beauty of imperfection.