I need to try to write an excellent column ( even though tests have shown I don 't always pull it off ) . I don 't need to be excellent at tidying my desk , or in replying to emails .
A study of the articles , advice and letters published in more than 300 parenting magazines between 1920 and 2006 has found that most modern-day children are only asked to take on trivial responsibilities , such as feeding a pet , clearing the table after dinner or tidying up after themselves .