When Passion Turns into Pressure:

I started writing because I loved it. Crafting words, expressing my thoughts, and sharing my perspectives was a joy, an escape from the routine. My blog was a creative outlet where I could freely explore my ideas and connect with like-minded individuals. However, once I decided to monetize it and committed to a strict schedule, something changed. The hobby that once brought me immense pleasure began to feel like a chore, and I found myself procrastinating more than ever.

The Transition from Hobby to Task

The process of monetizing a hobby can transform it from a leisurely activity into a source of stress. This phenomenon is not uncommon. When we impose deadlines and expectations on our creative pursuits, the intrinsic motivation that initially drove us can diminish.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation: Psychologist Edward Deci's self-determination theory distinguishes between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation refers to doing something because it is inherently enjoyable or satisfying, whereas extrinsic motivation involves performing a task to earn rewards or avoid punishment. Research has shown that extrinsic rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation, a phenomenon known as the overjustification effect (Deci, Koestner, & Ryan, 1999).

The Overjustification Effect: When I started monetizing my blog and set a schedule to upload every Thursday, I shifted from writing for the love of it (intrinsic motivation) to writing for the sake of meeting deadlines and earning income (extrinsic motivation). This shift caused the activity to lose its appeal and become a source of stress rather than enjoyment.

The Impact of Monetization on Creativity

Monetizing a hobby can also stifle creativity. Creativity thrives in an environment free from pressure and constraints. When we impose deadlines and financial expectations, we may feel pressured to produce content that is popular or marketable, rather than true to our passions.

Research on Creativity and Pressure: A study by Amabile et al. (1996) found that external pressures and expectations can negatively impact creative performance. Participants who were told their work would be evaluated produced less creative outputs compared to those who were not given any expectations. This suggests that the pressure to meet external standards can hinder creative expression.

Procrastination and Perfectionism

The pressure to produce high-quality, monetizable content on a regular schedule can lead to procrastination and perfectionism. The fear of not meeting one's own or others' expectations can be paralyzing, causing delays and avoidance behaviors.

Procrastination and the Fear of Failure: Procrastination is often linked to the fear of failure. When I committed to a strict blogging schedule, the fear of not producing perfect content led me to procrastinate. According to a study by Steel (2007), procrastination is a self-regulation failure driven by the desire to delay tasks that are perceived as difficult or stressful.

Perfectionism and Burnout: Perfectionism can also contribute to burnout, as individuals strive to meet unrealistic standards. A study by Sherry et al. (2016) found that perfectionistic concerns, such as the fear of making mistakes, were positively associated with burnout in college students. This suggests that the pressure to be perfect can lead to exhaustion and reduced enjoyment of the activity.

Finding Balance and Rediscovering Joy

To reclaim the joy of a hobby, it is essential to find a balance between passion and productivity. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Set Realistic Expectations: Instead of imposing strict deadlines, set flexible goals that allow for creativity and spontaneity. Allow yourself the freedom to write when inspiration strikes, rather than adhering to a rigid schedule.

2. Focus on Intrinsic Motivation: Remind yourself why you started the hobby in the first place. Focus on the intrinsic rewards, such as the joy of creation and personal fulfillment, rather than external outcomes.

3. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care: To prevent burnout, take regular breaks and prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you, ensuring that you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

4. Seek Support and Community: Connect with others who share your passion. Join communities or groups where you can share your experiences and receive encouragement. This can provide a sense of belonging and reduce the pressure to meet external standards.

5. Embrace Imperfection: Accept that not every piece of content will be perfect. Embrace the imperfections and view them as part of the creative process. This can reduce the fear of failure and encourage more authentic expression.

Conclusion

Monetizing a hobby can transform it from a source of joy to a source of stress, as the intrinsic motivation is overshadowed by external pressures and expectations. By understanding the impact of these pressures on creativity and finding ways to balance passion with productivity, it is possible to rediscover the joy and fulfillment that originally inspired the hobby. Remember, the value of a hobby lies not in its profitability, but in the personal satisfaction and happiness it brings.

References

Deci, E. L., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. M. (1999). A meta-analytic review of experiments examining the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 125(6), 627-668.

Amabile, T. M., Goldfarb, P., & Brackfield, S. C. (1996). Social influences on creativity: The effects of contracted-for reward. Journal of Applied Psychology, 81(5), 482-492.

Steel, P. (2007). The nature of procrastination: A meta-analytic and theoretical review of quintessential self-regulatory failure. Psychological Bulletin, 133(1), 65-94.

Sherry, S. B., Law, A., Hewitt, P. L., Flett, G. L., & Besser, A. (2016). Perfectionism and burnout in college students: A three-wave longitudinal study. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 63(1), 73-82.