Done is Better Than Perfect: Nida Ateeq’s Career Advice for Ambitious Leaders

This letter from Nida Ateeq is part of Pavilion’s International Women’s Day 2025 collection, where the women of Pavilion share heartfelt letters to their younger selves. Through these reflections, they explore the lessons, challenges, and defining moments that have shaped their careers. Read more inspiring stories here.

To the girl who thinks she has to have it all figured out, aka Nida,

First things first—relax. Seriously, take a deep breath.

That thing you are overthinking? It won’t even matter in the next 5 years.

But you know what will? The people. Not the titles, not the perfect career trajectory you’re obsessing over (which, by the way, won’t go as planned—thankfully), but the relationships you build along the way. The mentors who see something in you before you do. The colleagues who turn into lifelong friends. The strangers who become your biggest champions. These connections will shape your success far more than any strategy ever will, so nurture them. Help without expecting anything in return, celebrate others loudly, and remember that the real flex in life isn’t just climbing the ladder—it’s bringing people up with you.

And since I know you love a good list but hate admitting it, here’s what else you need to know:

• Say yes to the things that make your stomach flip—those are the moments that lead to real growth.
  
  
• You’ll never feel 100% ready for the big opportunities, but take them anyway, because confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about trusting yourself to figure it out.
  
  
• Stop chasing perfection; it’s a myth. Done is always better than perfect.
  
  
• Asking for help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you smart.
  
  
• Oh and that little voice in your head whispering that you’re not good enough? It’s lying. Kindly tell it to sit down and make some room for the unstoppable version of you that’s about to take over.

Your future self is out here, thriving, and trust me—you’ll get here too. So breathe, keep going, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride.

From the wiser, more caffeinated, and slightly less anxious version of you,
Nida

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