1 of 58 for 58: I'll Never Be Perfect, But I Always Can Do My Best

As the first of the 58 lessons I've learned in my life that I'll be sharing here in conjunction with my upcoming birthday, I'll refer to a recent, unpleasant experience. 

I've written (here and here) about my rejection for admission to a professional honor society. On the advice of someone who knows me well, I wrote more broadly about the experience. During the process I came to see how my ego and expectations set me up for this hurt.

I also acknowledged, for the first time, that I had done my absolute best while applying. I spent the time to craft my documents. I repeatedly revised and resubmitted them based on feedback I received. I also had reached out to colleagues I hadn't been in touch with in some cases for years to solicit their support. I was nervous, even apprehensive, about doing so. Their kind words were gratifying. By themselves they justified my effort. 

I put in a lot of time. I'm proud of my effort and what I produced. Most importantly, I'm comforted by it. The sting of the outcome is dissipating. 

My bottom line is that all I can do is my best. I know it won't meet everyone's standards or expectations. That's okay. I gave it my all. And I can learn and do even better the next time. 

I'll never be perfect. My work will never be perfect. But it will be as good as I can make it at that time. That's all I can ever hope to accomplish.