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A Shift In Perspective On Writing

From obsession to enjoyment

Mark Starlin
4 min readMar 3, 2020

I am undergoing a change in perspective about writing.

In my case, I believe it is for the best.

I am a bit obsessive about the things I enjoy. Which is why I don’t frequent donut shops and casinos. When I take on a new hobby or endeavor, I tend to focus on it intensely. It fills my mind most of the day. This could be considered a good trait when learning something, like a musical instrument, but it also means that I neglect most other things while my infatuation is burning bright. I am still responsible and do the things I need to do, but my mind is usually on the new obsession.

My first long-term obsession was playing guitar. That one took decades to abate. I still love playing guitar, and it is my primary source of income, but I no longer think about it all day long. It is now simply something I love to do. It is no longer an obsession.

I have had many obsessions over the years. Most were short term, but they tend to follow the same cycle. I discover something I enjoy. I get obsessed with it. I try to become proficient at it, or do it as often as possible, depending on what it is or the skill required. Then gradually, the obsession wears off, and it becomes something I enjoy doing instead of an obsession.

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Mark Starlin
Mark Starlin

Written by Mark Starlin

Old bones. Young heart. Uniquely arranged words.

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