The Truth About Interest

In life, we often embark on learning piano, painting, or other skills with great enthusiasm, confidently claiming it’s out of “interest.” Yet, before long, the challenges or monotony cool our passion, and we abandon it hastily. This phenomenon is not uncommon. So, is interest truly so fleeting and fickle? Is this so-called “interest” genuinely what it claims to be? And what, ultimately, is the essence of interest?

In reality, what we often perceive as interest is merely curiosity at play. For instance, when first encountering the piano, one might be captivated by its elegant appearance or its breathtaking sound, imagining the learning process to be a romantic endeavor. However, the actual journey involves tedious technical practice and extensive study of music culture and theory, which is far removed from the initial idealized vision. This disconnect often causes some to lose the motivation to continue.

Moreover, curiosity is inherently a short-lived attraction to novelty, lacking depth. When the freshness fades or challenges arise, curiosity without effort easily dissipates. Thus, giving up in the face of setbacks often indicates that this so-called “interest” is nothing more than surface-level curiosity, not a heartfelt passion.

True interest, however, is entirely different. It doesn’t always come with freshness or ease but sustains motivation even in the face of difficulties. Genuine interest possesses profound endurance, enabling one to persist through the “pain and pleasure” of the process and find joy in overcoming challenges. It is an intrinsic drive that transforms obstacles into sources of enjoyment.

The essence of interest lies in a strong desire to excel at something. This desire is fueled by the anticipation of achievement and the pursuit of self-worth. Learning any subject or skill inevitably involves monotony and setbacks, as mastering a craft demands “deliberate practice” and “repetitive refinement.” True interest is a form of spiritual joy that can only be experienced through deep engagement and effort.

A vivid example is gaming. Even games known for being entertaining can cause some players to lose interest due to their difficulty. For instance, when facing a tough opponent, some may give up after a few failed attempts, while others persist and ultimately succeed. The sense of accomplishment after overcoming such a challenge is a reward sustained by interest. This feeling far surpasses the fleeting satisfaction that curiosity offers.

Therefore, true interest is not a fleeting impulse or momentary curiosity but a deeply rooted and enduring commitment. Curiosity is ephemeral, but genuine interest grows through repeated effort and exploration. If you find yourself drawn to something even in the face of significant challenges, embrace it! This kind of interest will bring you lasting fulfillment and a profound sense of achievement.