How I learned to embrace my "unhealthy" obsessions


Read Time: ~2 minutes

Yooo! It’s Charlie,

"You're too obsessive."

"That's not healthy."

"You need balance in your life."

For years, I heard this from my dad every time I'd dive deep into something new.

When I spent months learning every detail about music production, he'd shake his head.

When I'd stay up until 2 AM perfecting a 3D model, he'd lecture me about "moderation".

When I'd research copywriting techniques for hours on end, he'd tell me I was taking it too far.

He was wrong about everything.

Obsession isn't a weakness. It's a superpower.

And I'm about to show you exactly how to weaponize yours.

Here's what obsessed people understand that "balanced" people don't:

Obsessed people never quit when it gets hard. While others are looking for the exit at the first sign of difficulty, obsessed people are just getting started. They see obstacles as puzzles to solve, not reasons to give up.

Obsessed people outlast the competition. Most people dabble. They try something for a few weeks, maybe a few months, then move on to the next shiny object. Obsessed people are still there after everyone else has left the building.

Obsessed people see things others miss. When you go deep enough into anything, you start noticing patterns and opportunities that surface-level learners never see. This is where breakthrough insights come from.

Obsessed people compound their efforts. Every hour they spend goes toward the same goal, building on what came before. "Balanced" people spread their efforts thin and wonder why nothing sticks.

Here's how to embrace your obsessions (the right way):

1. Stop apologizing for your intensity Society wants you to be mediocre at everything instead of exceptional at anything. Don't listen. Your obsession is what will set you apart.

2. Choose your obsessions deliberately Not every interest deserves your full attention. Pick the ones that align with your goals and values. Then go all in.

3. Set boundaries around your obsessions Being obsessed doesn't mean neglecting everything else. It means being intentional about when and how you dive deep.

4. Document your journey Track what you're learning, what's working, and what isn't.

5. Find other obsessed people Surround yourself with people who understand the value of going deep. They'll fuel your fire instead of trying to extinguish it.

The world needs more obsessed people.

Every breakthrough, every innovation, every piece of art that matters came from someone who couldn't let go of an idea.

Someone who kept pushing when everyone else said "that's enough."

Someone who chose mastery over dabbling, obsession over balance.

The "balanced" people will call you crazy.

Let them.

While they're spreading themselves thin across a dozen mediocre pursuits, you'll be building something extraordinary.

Your obsession isn't something to fix. It's something to harness.

The question isn't whether you should be obsessed.

The question is: what deserves your obsession?

Keep learning,

Charlie

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Made By Charlie

Digital Creator & Musician | Building Notion systems | On the journey to build a $10k/m digital business | Subscribe to see how

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