Originating in gaming, a side quest is something you do for fun, or out of curiosity, in addition to the main quest.
In terms of your life, the main quest may be your career, education, family or other responsibilities – your day-to-day life, basically.
It’s about the journey
When you complete your quest, your focus should not be on the fact that you were able to get through it. What makes your stomach jittery with pride should be the journey - what you did, not what you accomplished.
For me, starting a gymnastics class in my late thirties would be a great example. Spending one day a week learning new moves is what I feel proud of. Of course it is cool to show off with a backflip (if I’m able to learn it), but at the end of the year I can say I invested time in pursuing this for myself. That is a side quest. Regularly throughout the year I invest time, energy (and even some money) in doing this for myself.
What’s the use? No real use, except that I may have a cool party trick up my sleeve. More importantly, I’m hoping to master a new skill, and regardless of outcome, I’m exploring and following my curiosity.
Let curiosity get the better of you
I could try selling you on this, but why don’t we just leave it for your curiosity? I’m willing to bet good things come out of this if you try. Let me know what you’d like to do for your side quest, and we’ll put your commitment up on the site. For now that’s all there is to it - you type it, and we as a group help hold you accountable.
I promise to post more about why I think this will make the better place, but right now I’m out of time, and I believe in an iterative approach, so I’ll get back to you. Meanwhile, why don’t you join us and find inspiration for your side quest?
Totally free - no asterisk
Side Quest is free. There are no hidden cost, there are no ads, there is simply just us being curious, setting aside time for some personal exploration and fun.
P.S.:
* ← this is an asterisk, in case you were unfamiliar with its name. Please say hello to the asterisk, as it’s not used to being around without a hidden clause, and is probably feeling a bit confused.