Uncommon success isn’t about passion. It’s about obsession

How to create the conditions for your energising obsession.

Untethered Mind Exclusive Members’ Edition

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I used to believe that passion was enough.

I thought that as long as I enjoyed something, I would eventually get good at it. But I found my passion was fleeting.

One day, it feels exciting, and the next, it fades. That is why so many people start projects, hobbies, or businesses full of energy, only to abandon them when the excitement wears off.

I always encourage people to focus on mastering whatever craft they’re committing to. That way, you enjoy the fruits of the process, and you become increasingly valuable because skill development sits at the core of what you do.

Being on the path of mastery is one of the central elements of ongoing happiness and a sense of contribution.

It’s why I keep the craft of writing such a central component of what I do. It keeps me happy and energised.

But mastery does not come from passion alone. It comes from obsession — an unrelenting focus that continues long after the initial enthusiasm has faded.

Magnus Carlsen, the greatest chess player in the world, was asked in an interview whether he ever needs a break from playing and thinking about chess. But he said, ‘Why would I? It’s my favourite thing.’

Even after achieving pretty much everything possible in his field, he continues to study, analyse, and refine his understanding of the game. He plays out moves in his head while walking, eating, or traveling.

The difference between those who dabble and those who achieve true mastery is not only talent. It is their ability to stay obsessed with their craft, to structure their life around it, and to keep coming back to it, regardless of whether they feel motivated.

Obsession is not something that happens by accident. It is something you can dictate and mould. You must build the conditions that allow it to take root.

Here is how:

1. Identify what you are willing to obsess over.

Before you can develop an obsession, you need to be brutally honest about what you are willing to go all in on.

This might be something that can be easily identified from the start, or it’s something that takes a while and is continually evolving.

But many spread their energy across multiple interests, never fully committing to one. Others chase what seems exciting at the moment, only to drop it when something else catches their attention. But obsession doesn’t work like that. It requires a singular focus.