Why I no longer go from X —> (directly to) —> X

Sketch: Justine Anweiler, X Pathways, 2024.

I have been raised, like many, to follow a thought through to fruition; using a logical, type A, linear fashion. Meaning: when an idea enters my orbit and feels zesty, I act on it, in the most immediate and actionable fashion.

However . . .

When I end up directly at X it somehow has less magic. It’s less charming, less sustainable, and less life-giving. It is what it is.

So now I have entertained the indirect pathway to X.

The one that goes: hey this idea feels exciting. I’ll speak it into existence. I’ll tell people about it, without expectations, and be totally open to all the ways it could express itself.

It is the pathway around.

This path is full of magic.

It says “I’d like to buy a €1 house in Italy! Only it doesn’t have to be €1. It doesn’t have to be a house. It doesn’t even have to be in Italy. But right now I’m feeling this idea. Maybe I’d like to build something."

In my experience, X indirectly to X removes “how” from the equation and fuels the notion of “what if…” There is a sense of detachment, curiosity, possibility, and openness.

I now choose this pathway because X can have infinite expressions. It is no longer:

1. I think I’d like to eat an apple. I go buy an apple. I eat an apple.

But instead:

2. I think I’d like to eat an apple, yet I met an orange salesman and once we started chatting I learned he had an uncle with marvelous kiwi plants. So I ventured to his uncle’s house and he had just sold out of kiwi plants. He offered me a homemade bottle of wine to thank me for my troubles and I went on my way. Walking back, I stumbled upon a gathering where they had just finished all their wine. Naturally, I became the bell of the ball. Together we sipped wine and savored stewed apples.

I still arrived at X: I ate an apple.

But the magic of the indirect path is that the idea (or seed) begins the journey, it does not determine the destination. Rather than being fixed, it becomes.

The end of the second example could have ended anywhere because what started as eating an apple could have ended with purchasing a kiwi plant. If we are fixed on the expression of X, we unconsciously create limitations on the pathway to X and ultimately the satisfaction of X.

I’d rather be surprised —> ♾️❌

Article FAQs generated by ChatGPT:
1. How can I embrace the indirect pathway in my own life?
To embrace the indirect pathway, start by cultivating a mindset of openness and curiosity. When an idea or goal excites you, share it with others and explore various avenues without being fixated on a single outcome. Allow yourself to follow tangents and unexpected opportunities. For example, if you want to learn a new skill, instead of enrolling in a course immediately, attend related events, meet people in the field, and explore different resources. This way, you may discover new interests and connections that enrich your journey and lead to unexpected, rewarding outcomes.

2. What are the benefits of detaching from specific outcomes?
Detaching from specific outcomes allows you to remain flexible and open to various possibilities, reducing the pressure to achieve a predetermined result. This can enhance creativity, as you're not confined to a rigid path and can explore multiple avenues. It also reduces stress, as you are not constantly measuring your progress against a fixed endpoint. Moreover, by being open to different experiences, you might find greater satisfaction and joy in the journey itself, discovering new passions and opportunities that you hadn't initially considered.

3. Can the indirect pathway be applied to professional goals and career development?
Yes, the indirect pathway can be applied to professional goals and career development. Instead of setting a rigid career plan, allow yourself to explore different roles, projects, and experiences that interest you. Networking, attending industry events, and taking on diverse assignments can open doors to unexpected career advancements. This approach can lead to discovering new strengths and interests, making your career path more dynamic and fulfilling. By remaining adaptable and open to change, you may find opportunities that align better with your evolving skills and passions, ultimately leading to a more satisfying professional journey.