Author: Ben Treharne-Foose

Every day we are led to believe that life should be effortless. It seems as though showing that you care about something is no longer in style. “Oh, this old outfit? I just threw it on” “No, I don’t work out…I just watch what I eat” “Eh, maybe it works out…maybe not…” (shrug) Translation: “I’m not going to try hard because it’s cooler to not care. And if things don’t go my way…whatever.” I think it’s GOOD to be obsessive about certain things – the things you care about. No, I’m not obsessive about my shoelaces. I don’t care. But I am obsessive about the food I eat and the work I do. Being obsessive isn’t the easiest path to choose, but it is what makes us individuals. The most interesting people around us are the ones that are obsessive about particular things. An old university friend of mine is obsessed with collecting and learning to play any and all stringed instruments. He has dozens of guitars, mandolins, and sitars from around the world. A drinking session with him is an incredible evening as he slips further under the foggy haze of alcohol and begins his serenade. He is obsessed, and as a consequence is one of the most talented musicians I have ever known. Or how about my grandfather who meticulously wrote in his diary every day and...