The popular advice “Do what you love” is misguided. But not because doing what you love is harmful. The issue lies elsewhere.
Unless we’re talking about dusting or IG scrolling, any worthwhile endeavor will take months, if not years, to reach a point of excellence. Until then, the learning process can feel difficult, discouraging, and dull.
The path of mastery is rarely quick and smooth; it’s usually winding and rough.
Moreover, there are moments when we hate even the things we deeply love. For instance, writing is a cherished part of my day. But it’s a bitter feeling when I’ve been staring at a blank screen for an hour with nothing to show for it.
Or, sometimes we’re thrilled with the result, but the actual work or a particular phase of it brings irritation and resistance. Think of morning workouts for a night owl, or the sales process for an introvert.
Something else redeems the price we pay in these cases.
But first, let’s address the main obstacle — we don’t know ourselves well. Only years later do we start to understand why we acted one way and not another. What we want for our future is often a mystery.
Thank God, we have a clue — rely on your Interest.
No one in the world can explain why something intrigues you. Nor should they. Interest bubbles up inside you, like a hiccup or a dream. It’s yours alone, because it can’t be faked or forced.
Interest points to a potential personal meaning.
It’s not a guarantee, but it’s an opportunity. Better to give it a shot. If all goes well, as you dig into something new, your interest will stick around and even grow.
Conclusion: start with interest, and love will follow.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
About me:
As a business therapist, I help tech founders quickly solve dilemmas at the intersection of business and personality, and boost company value as a result.
How can I help you?
If you've long been trying to understand what is limiting you and/or your business and how to finally give important changes a push, then The Catalyst Session is designed specifically for you. Book it here.