The Skill of Obsession
How to use it, master it, and not let it ruin you
There’s one trait that can lead to amazing performances. It’s a trait that many admire, but also many fear. The trait creates a singular focus that cannot be broken until an aim is reached. It makes the holder impervious to both pain and pleasure. It can result in brilliant works but also broken people.
Obsession.
Obsession can be intoxicating. It can create power. If you can harness and use it, it’s invaluable. And it’s not just a trait. It’s a skill.
The Skill That Leads to Greatness
Kobe Bryant told the following story to a journalist, after being asked about his own arrogance and detractors:
“I was at a Gold’s Gym in 1998 and lifting weights. And I get a phone call: Michael Jackson’s on the other line… what the hell is going on? Somebody is playing… He’s a big basketball fan. And I was starting to get flak for being an introvert and being so serious all the time about the game, and he wanted to call and give me encouragement and say:
Don’t change for them. You have to stay focused. If you want to be one of the all-time greats, you have to study the all-time greats. You have to be obsessive about what you do and how you do it.
