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Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/34716
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

I'm not really a writer, but I argue that in writing, or art, or programming, or any other skill, there is **play** and there is **purpose** - and which comes natural (and which doesn't) differs from person to person.

As an example, "_To attempt bigger and deeper stories than you've done before_" can be done with the attitude of, " **Let's see what happens..!**" or it can be done with the attitude of, "**I will focus on [topic; maybe story complexity?] with the goal of, [being much more complex than before]"**

For some, "play" is too loose. There is no goal. Nothing to drive one into motion or give feedback on performance.

For others, "purpose" is too strict. It bleeds out the enjoyment and the final result can end up abused because other factors that are not expressly in the purpose get ignored.

It's a lot more stressful to try and take the attitude that you are not accustomed too, but at the same time sometimes that is the path to growing the most.

I'd advise growing in the way that works best for you most of the time; but if you feel a block and need either new discipline or new passion, to go with the other approach.

Original score: 5