photo credit: Capture Queen ™
You have probably heard this question more than once in your life.
Sometimes when we share an idea that we are excited about with others, it’s met with the above question. Maybe the idea seems like it won’t work, or maybe nothing like it has been done before. Maybe it seems out of character for you, or maybe it’s just downright crazy. Whatever the reason, other people often respond to us with –
Why Do You Want To Do That?
Although it may said with good intentions, this question ultimately serves one purpose – to dissuade you from doing whatever it is that you want to do. And it never feels good to be on the receiving end of it.
So, the next time that someone comes to you with a new idea, something that they are really excited about. Stop yourself from asking the above question, and say to them –
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While I agree it can be a question that causes much self doubt and requires one to face the notion that they may not be ‘going with the crowd’ I think at the least that it is a valuable question to ask ourselves.
By actually uncovering an answer (as opposed to just giving up when being confronted with it) we can increase our drive and certainity that we are doing exactly what we want to do.
Laying out the foundations for our own solid individuality.
Hi Jarrod – Absolutely. I think when we know why we are doing something, it makes our action much stronger. However, I think many people use this question to discourage others from doing something, but I guess we can always use it to our advantage.
If you will allow me to borrow from the world of literature, this question reminds me of “Old Man and the Sea.” The premise being, we must not find our meaning in the fruits of work but in the work itself. Our wholeness comes from our want to serve a purpose (feel useful) whether we find success or not is not important. This being a modern way of thinking stems another branch of Post Modern thinking. Evolving from chasing perfection, we deny any rhyme or reason for action. We simply do what we feel regardless of the purposed question. Our actions are done simply to celebrate life.
P.S Shout out from your cousin in St Paul MN
Hi Bryan! – Your comment is a little bit similar to Jarrod’s above, and, it’s interesting, because I wasn’t thinking of it like that when I wrote the post. Interesting thoughts.
Thanks for the comment. I was surprised at the end 🙂 Hope all is well.
I found your blog via Demanding Joy…and I’m glad I popped in for a visit! I will definitely come back!
Hi Stefanie – Great! Thanks a lot. 🙂