Embrace it, own it, go for it

I've always thought being able to get carried away was a good thing. In this cynical, we've-already-seen-everything kind of world it's one of those rare things that still seem innocent and genuine. Having a passion for something, whether it's music or art or sports is valuable. I don't think it's money that makes the world go round.

Having said that I must admit I'm one of those people who's constantly on the edge with their passion. Sometimes things go overboard and the passion is close to becoming an obsession. I've been involved in projects where I've lost myself and ended up doing way more than I was first going to, forgetting everything else I had going on in my life.

And that's when things get complicated. Where should I draw the line? Am I able to do it? And what should I do if I don't manage to control the situation?

In the context of music or music business getting lost in your passion sometimes seems more like a rule than an exception. Artists spend years in the studio perfecting their albums. Fans become stalkers. Photographers become paparazzis, journalists forget their ethics.

And then there are those cases when it's hard to say whether one's being obsessed or just enthusiastic. If a fan spends loads of money to travel and see a gig or a match, is it a sign of being committed or just crazy? Or how about queuing hours to get an autograph or tickets? As is the case with everything, there seem to be double standards as well. Young girls camping outside a venue to ensure a first row spot at a gig are usually considered silly but if grown men are spending insane amounts of money to see the game of the year it's supposed to be different somehow.

To hell with that, I say. As long as you're not hurting anyone (including yourself) I suggest you forget all those social restrictions and just go for it. To have a passion towards something is a gift. Chances are that the person making fun of it is just envious for not having the same drive.