Side quests are optional missions or tasks in a video game that are not part of the main storyline but exist within the game's world. If you have spent some time gaming, you will find that games have expanded and these side quests can take up a fair amount of time. They add depth to the game, the characters, and the story. Depending on the type of person you are, you could speed-run through the main story; or you take your time exploring the side quests, collecting new skills/points, and weaving between the main story and side quest.
As kids, we spend lots of time on side quests - picking up hobbies, sports, and skills. This makes sense, we don’t have any responsibilities but as we get older the focus increasingly becomes the main story - get through school, get a good job, find a partner etc.
The main story is important(obviously) however, I’ve noticed that people who are unilaterally focused on the main story start to get jaded. This isn’t to say they’re not successful in the traditional sense. They’re more likely to ask “What’s the point of this?”
Now I don’t have the answer to that question. People much wiser and smarter than me are still looking for an answer and have not had much success.
What I do know is the main story is a long journey and engaging in side quests along the way makes life a lot more enjoyable. Yes, we have to make money for the main story and the work that generates an income might not always be what you love but spending some time doing what brings you joy and accomplishment. Do it just for the sake of doing it, without pressure to be good at it.
I’ve been doing different side quests for a few years now. It keeps me sharp, breaks the monotony of the routine, and has helped me make new friends along the way! I’m not super skilled at these things but I’m competent enough to have fun with it.
My basis for picking these side quests is simple - “Would it be cool to know how to do this?” If the answer is yes, I will try it out. If it does enough to keep me engaged I go back to it. That’s the best part of side quests - if you don’t like it, you just stop!
Currently, I am on a side quest with a group of very interesting people to write and post for 30 days in a row. Goal is to hit publish 30 days in a row, quality is not the focus.
Some of my more memorable side quests in the recent past involve learning to throw axes! I play in a league every Tuesday, which allows me to flex my competitive muscle and practice handling pressure in a low-stakes environment. The people are great too!
I’m also training for my first triathlon. It helps me work on my fitness and keeps me accountable to a routine.
My favorite one by far is learning how to fly a plane. I stopped because it’s an expensive hobby to sustain but one day I will go back to get my private pilot license.
I do these side quests because it’s fun and challenging and keep me motivated. My quests could look very different from yours. It doesn’t matter what you choose, pick one.
Unleash your inner Gandalf. We’re going on a quest!
PS: Here’s a video of me engaging in one of my favourite side quests - Axe throwing!
Post 4/30