BRAVERY 52 | List 23

LIST 23 | List the things you only want to do if they can be done perfectly.

I've learned that in most cases done is better than perfect. I now strive for excellence rather than perfection. There's more compassion in that approach.

That said, you can take the Virgo out of the girl, but really you can't. Don't even try.

I'm a natural critic and far more critical of myself than anyone. When I turn my critical eye toward myself I see that:

• I can't knit or crochet, after years of trying, the results are consistently awful. But I do enjoy needlepoint and hope to get back at it.

• I can't play piano or guitar, after instruction, I'm barely proficient. I am classically trained as a vocalist and sing is something I can do. (Still no vibrato, sorry Dr. O.)

• I can't paint or draw and I find my inability to be frustrating. I am a talented hobbyist photographer, I have a good eye and greatly enjoy taking photos.

I'm sure I could continue this list but suffice it to say, I've accepted the things I cannot do well and have found something similar; something that would yield the same feeling of accomplishment. I focus on the happy alternative.