A perfect test score, perfect credit, a face without blemishes, maybe even a problem-free life: these are ideals for many. Setting aside the question of whether these goals are achievable, on deeper reflection are they even desirable? Your parents, your teachers, and your bosses all want you to avoid mistakes. Here’s why they have it all wrong.

Rush isn’t your average rock band. They sidestepped critical barbs and temptations on tour to develop a unique sound and voice. Though scarred by personal tragedy, the trio stuck together for over 40 years and never stopped pushing their limits. Their success comes as much from key choices made along the way as it does from talent or passion.

In his new book Cognitive Surplus, Clay Shirky has a big idea: use all that brainpower we waste vegetating in front of the TV to do useful work. But when speaking of a “cognitive surplus” leads us to act as if cognition is a commodity, we set ourselves up for a fall.

Riding out the global recession means marshaling your emotional resources as much as managing your finances. You can use today’s economic setback as a catalyst for personal growth right now — even before the recovery takes hold.

Some wonder how the modern talk radio hosts have managed to capture and maintain such a large audience. Some even argue that some balance in programing ought to be imposed on station owners. But the fact is that the audience the popular radio hosts play to was out there all along.

To be inspired, we must always be open and receptive to (ready to “take in”) the creative energies that might infuse and influence us. But inspiration is more than just the “in” side.

It’s infectious and permeates my whole being: the innocence, wonder, and creativity I experience from being with my grandchildren.