I remember when my brother, Markie (not Mark's real name), ran his first full marathon. He was so proud of himself for having crossed the finish line until our father expressed his disappointment that Markie hadn't come in first. This message that only the most perfect outcome is meaningful had a profound influence on both of us.
For my brother it meant, in spite of his many accomplishments, putting a lot of pressure on himself to do even better. On the other hand, I found myself reluctant to try new experiences in the fear that I would fail -- be less than perfect. Unfortunately, this meant missing out on opportunities for growth and enjoyment in my earlier years.
Nichiren Buddhism teaches that every human being is unique and worthy of respect. Eventually, I was able to overcome my earlier reluctance to leave my comfort zone and my tendency to compare myself with others. Instead, my measure of "good enough" became whether I tried my best given the circumstances. I replaced harsh inner judgement with compassion for myself.
Daisaku Ikeda has said, "We often hear people say they aren't capable. But this is a defeatist attitude. If you feel you aren't capable, then tap into the great reservoir of potential inside you.... If we chant to the Gohonzon [the scroll SGI Buddhists chant to], we can bring forth all the ability and strength we will ever need."
At this point in my life, I spend most of my time writing, speaking about Buddhism and hope, and playing music in a local blues band. The reality that I can now engage in each of these endeavors with joy didn't happen overnight. It took many years of chanting and therapy to let go of the misconceptions that were preventing me from accepting myself as a "good enough" human being just the way I was as opposed to what others thought I should be.
Now, a combination of trying my best, chanting for my own success, and being satisfied with and learning from the result has become a great formula for my own growth and happiness. And that's good enough for me!