Does being told that "the best you can is good enough" stop people striving to fulfill their potential? I guess we judge "the best we can" on the best we've already done.

I dunno, does anyone else think that adages like "be yourself" and "as long as you do your best" do more harm than good?

I don't think they do harm but I do think it can stall people a little. Depending on the type of person, they could possibly just give up prematurely.

I know that I can do much better than I think that I can, paradoxically.

If it's a paradox it's a pretty common one. I mean, when I estimate my potential, whether I factor in my inherent laziness or not has a major effect on the result.

I have vowed to devote myself to a life of greater agape once I have completed my studies and can afford the time and money to feed myself and travel, but until then I might just have to feel mildly lazy, guilty and selfish for most of my waking hours. but my shame isa great source of moral inspiration, the inspiration for me to better myself.

edit: I missed a word. this just isn't my day for typing, is it?