Have you heard this supposedly motivational quote before:
“Never be satisfied.”
The idea is that if you’re satisfied, you’ll become complacent. So in order to keep improving you can never be satisfied with your output.
While I get the sentiment, it’s a depressing way to live your life, don’t you think?
So here’s what I propose as an alternative:
“Be satisfied, but look ahead.”
The work you create is a perfect reflection of where you’re at right now.
So by that measure, your work is perfect.
But…
You will improve as you continue to practise and grow.
You’ll look back at what you’re creating right now and laugh, because someday your skills will be vastly better than they are right now.
And that’s okay.
Celebrate your wins. Be happy with what you’re creating. Know that every single thing you do right now is all work towards your future self – but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate your present self.