Perfection as a barrier to participation

One of the things that keeps me going is my belief that people, as a general rule, seek to improve. I look at science and technology as the iconic illumination of this theory. Humans want to find more knowledge and improve existing practices. We, as a species, are progressive.

As a result, we idolize those we perceive to be better than we are. Look at Hollywood and our culture of celebrity obsession. These people are famous because, for some reason or other -- be it riches, beauty, connection, talent, or luck -- these people have something we don't. They are in some way superior to the rest of us, and for that we place them on a pedestal for worship.

This is also why we have awards. We want to recognize those of us who achieve more in their pursuits than anyone else. We want to encourage competition and acknowledge the winner. We want everyone to constantly try to do more, to reach further, to be the best.

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Today, in a brief exchange with one of my Tweeps (@TheBeanCast), I was not surprised to learn that studies by award agencies show that one of the major barriers to participation is intimidation. Of course it is. Being the astute folks that they are, smart media and marketing people are aware of the importance we place on excellence, and so they cram it down our throats. We are fed examples of greatness as an ideal to strive for.

From a real-person perspective, when I see someone who has done something amazing, often instead of thinking "I could do that too!?" I think, "Wow. What an incredible person. I wish I could be like that." And with that sentiment, I resign myself to failure before I've even ventured to try.

This is a marketing dilemma I face frequently. I want to showcase the best and the brightest, the most remarkable stories... But do people relate better to something more attainable?

As a marketing professional, the problem is not terribly troubling. It's just a matter of finding stories that are inspiring but not intimidating.

But as a regular person, this intimidation truly inhibits me. I see myself passing up opportunities, because I assume I'm not good enough, or I tell myself I'll wait until I've improved X, Y, or Z before I'll even attempt to participate. But how will I ever improve or learn if I don't throw myself into the mix?

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Are we wrong to be idolizing exceptional people? Or is it necessary as a part of human nature to establish an ideal, to set our sights on a goal?

As I began to write this, I thought I knew the answer, but I am afraid I've backed myself into a philosophical corner. Maybe it is just the years of social conditioning telling me to seek inspiration from celebrity icons. Or maybe it actually makes sense. I'm not sure anymore.

I welcome and encourage comments from any passersby. Just starting to get serious about this blog, so I appreciate your help getting it started.