As I sit here writing this, Christmas is approaching, and I can already feel the nagging sensation that I have not prepared well enough. I have not yet put up the tree. Did I choose good enough gifts? Will I get the scarf and hat knitted? Will my people enjoy the occasion?

Where does this come from? We have this deeply entrenched belief that we must be good. Do a good job. Be a good friend, partner, and citizen.

But wait. Look at that language. “Good enough.” “Well enough.” Note how my worry centers around adequacy, performance, and measuring up to an external standard.

In the famous words of Mary Oliver in her incredible poem Wild Geese, she says, “You do not have to be good.”

And she’s right.

Imagine what you could make if you weren’t asking whether it’s good. Imagine the experiments you’d try, the ideas you’d explore, the work you’d share here in Insiders without wondering if people will think it’s worthy. Imagine showing up to your studio, to this community, without that voice in your head keeping score.

Your value doesn’t hinge on perfect execution. Not at Christmas, not in your work, not in how you participate here. The voice demanding you be good isn’t protecting you. It’s keeping you small.

What if you just… made things that satisfied you? Tried things to expand your skills? Shared yourself generously? There’s so much richness beyond good.

Note: This essay was originally posted in Blue Bottle Insiders in the “Ginger’s Musings” section. If you crave this kind of artistic support, join us in Insiders.