The Power of Side Quests

If you didn’t grow up playing video games or role playing games, you might be new to the idea of the side quest. In games, a side quest is a shorter task or activity that you have the option to complete, temporarily stepping off the path (often literally) that will lead you to your ultimate goal.

In real life, people use the term to describe a secondary activity, project, or pursuit. Something that takes you off the path to your ultimate goals.

In games, side quests are by definition not necessary; you don’t need the tools, skills, or treasure that you find on these journeys in order to succeed. That said, sometimes the rewards from the side quest can help you in the main activity. The catch is that you don’t know what’s off the path unless you take the chance and wander away for a moment. This week, our team was talking about real life side quests and how they’re a way to leave room for spontaneity and mystery in life.

• Danielle’s side quest to do the florals for her own wedding led her into deeper learning; this practical decision quietly became a side quest that changed how she relates to beauty and gathering, inspiring her to think about community flower gardens and weaving nature into gathering.
• Sarah’s side quest to put down a larger knitting project and switch to a pair of socks led her to remember the value of reading directions with care, even when she’s feeling confident.
• Vicki’s deep dive into biology led her to think about how we can create spaces and rituals that promote oxytocin release instead of following the dopamine drive of modern society.

Sometimes they’re a playful diversion, sometimes they’re a way to shift your focus and recharge. Sometimes they provide a needed new perspective or the inspiration or tools that you need when you get back on the path.

There are benefits to deep focus and committed time, but sometimes a side quest is exactly what you need. Even if you’re not sure where that detour is going to take you. Real life side quests might not lead you to literal treasure chests or help you find an alchemist, but the rewards might be just as sweet if you make space to wander a little bit.

Yours in side-questing,

The Coralus Team