Something to Keep
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.”
Abraham Maslow
A Second Look
Evolutionary psychology tells us that change is difficult because the opposite (performing automatic habits) helps us conserve energy. Also, we humans are not fans of uncertainty. As a human, I can attest to that. The problem is that in modern times, change is often the thing that leads to growth.
Personal development demands change. You can read all the self-help content you want, but unless you’re willing to start working out, launch that business, or ask someone out, you won’t get to reap the rewards. Change, as difficult as it is, leads to the development of new skills, new opportunities, better habits, and continuous progress.
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. Maybe it’s constant dissatisfaction (another very human trait). Maybe I’m reaching some premature midlife crisis, which would explain why I’m constantly thinking about buying a new guitar. I think there’s more to that, though. Once you’re used to taking new challenges, you need new ones to keep you content.
Now I’m not saying you’re not enough the way you are. I’m just saying that you should always pursue something else because that’s what makes us human. There’s no rulebook for doing this, since everyone likes something different. Whatever it is that you’re into, go chase it. You might never find it, but the joy is in the process.
Something I Liked
During the last summer break, I decided I was going to learn Green Day’s American Idiot in its entirety on the rhythm guitar. Although I played those songs for a couple of weeks, nothing came out of it at first. I persisted, though, and even if it’s been months since I first attempted that feat, I’m finally making visible progress.
I don’t know if learning the guitar parts of my favorite punk rock album is a good thing to focus on at almost 40 years of age. Let me tell you something, though, I haven’t had this much fun on a project in years. I don’t care if this is the most productive thing I could be focusing on. I don’t care if it makes me money. In fact, I like that it doesn’t.