That feeling of "I'll never be this good"

I sometimes feel blocked because I despair that I'll never live up to my heroes. It's that internal voice of perfectionism. But just now I read an awesome quote in an interview with David Sedaris that addresses it, and I had to share.

What is the most dangerous type of influence for a young writer?

I think it’s important to read with a generous spirit. If you’re going to pick up a book and say, “I’ll never be that good,” well, it’s not about you. Just celebrate the fact that anyone’s that good. When I read something great, I know I’ll never be that good. But the fact that anyone can be that good is beautiful to me.

Click to expand...

That really spoke to me. Reading with a generous spirit. Appreciating that I live in a world where someone can be that good.

Edit: The quote came from here: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts...im-just-there-for-the-laughs/article12415593/