In a world where balance and moderation are often extolled virtues, the word “obsessed” can carry negative connotations. However, for some, myself included, being called obsessed is not an insult but a badge of honor—a testament to our passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment. In this article, I delve into why I embrace the label of obsession and how it fuels my pursuit of excellence and fulfillment.
The Power of Passion
At the core of obsession lies an intense passion—a burning desire to immerse oneself fully in a pursuit, whether it’s a creative endeavor, a professional goal, or a personal interest. For me, being obsessed signifies a deep connection to my chosen path—a sense of purpose and meaning that drives me to pour my heart and soul into every endeavor. Far from being a negative trait, this level of passion fuels my creativity, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. When I came across Grant Cardone’s assertion in his book, the 10X Rule, that “Obsession Isn’t a Disease, It’s A Gift,” it immediately resonated with me, affirming that I was pursuing the right course. If you’re accustomed to sleeping in every day or spending hours playing video games, Grant’s perspective on the matter might not sit well with you.
The Pursuit of Mastery
Obsession often accompanies the relentless pursuit of mastery—the quest to hone one’s skills, deepen one’s knowledge, and push the boundaries of what is possible. Whether it’s mastering a musical instrument, honing a craft, or excelling in a chosen field, being called obsessed reflects a commitment to excellence and a refusal to settle for mediocrity. For me, obsession is not just about achieving success; it’s about striving for mastery—to continually push myself to new heights and unlock my full potential. Boxing was my hobby for more than ten years, though collecting stamps might have been less painful. In the initial month of training, my boxing coach pointed out my dismal footwork. His reassurance that we could manage with it fell short of my expectations. Determined to improve, I dedicated countless hours to refining my footwork, poring over footage, and mastering the technique to ensure I moved fluidly in the ring rather than resembling a clumsy ape.
Fueling Ambition and Drive
Far from being complacent or content with the status quo, those labeled as obsessed are driven by an insatiable hunger for progress and growth. Being called obsessed motivates me to push myself beyond my comfort zone, to set audacious goals, and to pursue them with unwavering determination. It ignites a fire within me—a sense of urgency and purpose that propels me forward, even in the face of adversity or setbacks.
Embracing Intensity and Focus
Obsession is often synonymous with intensity—an unwavering focus and single-minded dedication to a chosen pursuit. While some may view this intensity as intimidating or overwhelming, I see it as a superpower—a capacity to immerse myself fully in the task at hand, to block out distractions, and to channel my energy towards achieving my objectives. In a world filled with distractions and competing demands, being obsessed allows me to maintain clarity of purpose and to channel my energy towards what truly matters.
Cultivating Resilience and Grit
In the face of challenges, setbacks, and failures, being called obsessed serves as a source of resilience and grit. It reminds me that setbacks are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth and learning—that failure is not a reflection of my worth but a stepping stone on the path to success. Embracing obsession means embracing resilience—the courage to persevere in the face of adversity and to emerge stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever before.
Conclusion
In a society that often admonishes obsession as a negative trait, I choose to embrace it as a source of strength, passion, and purpose. Being called obsessed is not an insult but a compliment—a recognition of my unwavering commitment to excellence, mastery, and personal growth. Far from being a flaw, obsession is a superpower—a driving force that propels me forward, fuels my ambition, and allows me to unlock my full potential. So, the next time someone calls me obsessed, I’ll wear the label with pride, knowing that it signifies not just passion, but a relentless pursuit of greatness.
