When working on any build or project, it’s important to let the problems themselves guide the solutions. Avoid introducing fixes for hypothetical issues that don’t actually exist yet, even if they theoretically could in the future. Every solution you implement comes with a cost, whether in complexity, resources, or trade-offs. Adding unnecessary solutions risks creating complications rather than addressing real needs. Focus instead on tackling the issues that are present and tangible.

This doesn’t mean ignoring the potential for future challenges—it means balancing practicality with foresight. Previous experience from similar builds can be invaluable here. If you’ve encountered recurring issues in the past, there’s no harm in incorporating proven solutions to avoid them. However, this should only be done if those solutions don’t come at the expense of anything critical in the current project. Just because it worked once doesn’t mean it fits every situation.

Building something successfully requires staying adaptable while maintaining focus. New challenges may arise as the project evolves, and you should remain open to addressing them as they come. That flexibility is key. However, trying to engineer solutions for every possible scenario in advance is a trap. Over-preparation often results in bloated designs and wasted resources, leaving you with a project overly complicated for its intended purpose.

Allow the problems to dictate the solutions rather than the other way around. Focus on what’s actually in front of you, informed by lessons from the past. This approach creates results that are practical, intentional, and equipped to handle challenges without becoming weighed down by unnecessary work.