The very thought that i will be unimpressive
Is paralyzing. Terrifying.

I'd rather not try.
No point trying if you will not impress.
I stopped trying.

-

But try you must,
Let your mediocrity be known, if that be the truth
Stroke after stroke, of varying consistencies -- tracked progress
There is value in both progress and excellence.

-

It is a stubborn insistence, this view that the effortlessly amazing ones are the only admirable ones. You want to be that person, but you can't, so divert your ideals elsewhere.

Ideals are also standards you set for yourself before the others impose theirs on you. Ideals are a safety net. Grow up already.