When I was a younger lad, I can remember taking a hike on a trail with a friend of mine, his father, and a few of his brothers. I recall having much fun with them; whether it was roasting marshmallows over our fire or simply lighting firecrackers for amusement, we enjoyed ourselves. There was nothing too special about the journey itself and admittedly, I do not remember too much except for bits and pieces of conversation or almost stumbling a few times. Other than that, the memory that sticks with me the most was that it was an enjoyable experience, from beginning to end, and is something I would certainly enjoy doing again.

I mention this because I find that I often get in my own way in my own hobbies and activities, often taking them more seriously than I should. I get angry at myself for minor errors and expect the best results. Oftentimes when I finish a piece of writing or a signature, the first things I notice are the errors I have made. I do not even give myself a chance to revel in the success of completing it. I place too much concern on the end result and barely view it as a stepping stone to getting better or really appreciating experience.

In relation to the hike we took, what was my original goal? It was to give myself happiness and joy. I was not practicing to be the next person to reach the top of Mt. Everest, but went on the trip due to it sounding interesting and fun. Could you imagine if I had taken this too seriously? The memory that would have stayed with me would not be the experience, but the end result of how I should not have been so tired nor should I have almost fell so many times or the fact I did not have anything interesting to say. Silly criticisms I know, but those would have been the prevailing thoughts if I treated it like I do with my other hobbies.

Happiness is the true goal of what you are doing. Results will come with time. Treat it as an experience, not as a means to an end. Much like the times I stumbled, learn from your errors to ensure they do not reoccur too much, if at all. If you find your own criticisms are in your way, treat it like those pieces of conversation, remember the parts that matter and leave the rest go. Do not let it hamper the journey. It is important to remember to do things for you, to have fun, to enjoy the experience, and to not take it too seriously.