Efficiency or cutting corners?
From a young age I was rewarded for efficiency. At 10 I optimized my paper-route for collections revenue. At 15 my goal in school was 90%, because that got me the the same “A” as 100%. At 25 my algebra lesson plans were maximized for student learning in each and every minute.
This morning I had a fleeting inclination to not make my bed, because it will be used again tonight. Wouldn't it be more efficient to leave it be?
In more instances than I care to count, I have delayed shaving my face for an extra day, because then I won't have to spend as much time with a razor in the mirror.
As the snow melts outside my window, these efficiencies have begun to reveal themselves as cutting corners.
I choose to make my bed because it starts my day out with order and simple ritual. I step up to the mirror to shave not because it is efficient, but because it is a simple way to take care of myself.
Truth is, the man in the mirror appreciates being seen and cared for. Even when it's not efficient. Especially when it's not cutting corners.