how much success do you need to keep your interest in a new activity?

Question

i learned how to play pool many years back. as i practiced, i saw some imporovement. i never got good at it, but i had enough success with the game to keep me interested when i played. AND i told myself that if i practiced more, i'd probably get even better.

how successful do you need to be at trying something new to keep you interested in it? does success have any bearing at all on your efforts? any examples welcome... thank you.

Answer 1

I like to paint. I have been painting for at least 30 years. I have improved my technique over time. I have sold many paintings, but not enough to live on. I could sell more if I were to paint subjects that more people like e.g. something that they could hang over the couch and match the wallpaper, but I don't, and I won't. I paint what I feel like painting, in my own funky way, and I keep doing it.

So, I have a combination of success and failure. I enjoy painting, and I feel happy when I paint. I think of how Van Gogh could barely sell a painting while he was alive. There is nothing better for the art market than a dead artist. Basquiat, while alive sold his paintings for thousands. After his death they sold for millions.

Answer 2

I need a lot of success in order to keep my interest. If I am trying something that interests me, and I don't do well at it, I stop after some time. Especially when playing video games.

Though Darts are always fun weither you're good or not :D

Answer 3

Hmm, good question. Yes, i think for most people's success does play a big part in their efforts for trying anything. Alot of people need to be motivated and rewarded, but there are others who don't need to anything to keep them doing what interests them. I kinda am both ways, it just depends on the situation i guess... if i believe it in or want it bad enough i will do it regardless of success or reward, :]

Answer 4

You just need to rediscover it everyday. Stagnance kills your interest.