If we chase something long enough, we run the risk of conforming to it, even it that wasn’t the goal in the first place.
Example: A performing artist desires to have a successful career, but doesn’t necessarily agree with the “doing whatever it takes.” If they chase the idea of a successful career long enough, they will run the risk of conforming to the demands of the industry in order to achieve their goal.
This goes for who we surround ourselves with as well. Hang around people with a particular set of values long enough and we run the risk of conforming to those values.
This is important to note in that in the midst of all the pressures of life it takes a second amount of energy to hold one’s space against “easier ways” of conforming - of succumbing to the pressures. The easier ways will present themselves, but they will come with a price.
How do we prevent this from happening? Know your anchors. Strengthen your resolve. And by all means, check yourself and take breaks.