“Most people are so worried about looking good that they never do anything great. Most people are so worried about doing something great that they never do anything at all.”

Derek Sivers:

I now just assume I'm below average.

It serves me well.

I listen more. I ask a lot of questions.

…

To assume you're below average is to admit you're a beginner. It puts you in student mind. It keeps your focus on present practice and future possibilities, and away from any past accomplishments.

Most people are so worried about looking good that they never do anything great.

Most people are so worried about doing something great that they never do anything at all.

You destroy that paralysis when you think of yourself as such a beginner that just doing anything is an accomplishment.

Read the rest of his comments here.