The Power of Side Quests: Small Experiments, Big Shifts

At a party recently, someone asked me about my hobbies.

I mentioned my newsletter, some DJ’ing, and my Wednesday night quiz team.

They laughed and said, “You’re obsessed with side quests.”

I loved that. It’s the perfect way to describe someone who’s always exploring new things.

A few years ago, I experimented with a newsletter.

That side quest became one of the most meaningful parts of my week.

It didn’t start with a big plan. Just a little curiosity.

And that’s the point.

What is a Side Quest?

Feeling stuck, bored, or unsure what’s next?

That’s your brain asking for a side quest.

A side quest is a small, optional project you take on alongside your main goals.

It’s a mini-adventure that sparks energy and creativity—without the pressure of success or failure.

You’re still working on your big ambitions.

But side quests help you stay fresh, motivated, and curious along the way.

Why Side Quests Matter

Here's why they're powerful - even if they seem small.

• Spark creativity by breaking routine
• Build new skills without pressure
• Help uncover hidden passions
• Create small wins that boost momentum
• Make life more interesting and playful

Instead of feeling like you are grinding through your task list, side quests help you enjoy the game.

In Tiny Experiments, Anne-Laure Le Cunff describes a lifestyle built on small acts of curiosity.

That’s what side quests are. A fun, low-stakes way to experiment—and sometimes transform your life.

20 Side Quests You Can Start Today

You don’t need to overhaul your life.

Pick one or two that excite you. See where they lead.

Creativity & Self-Discovery

• Take one photo every day for a month
• Write a letter to your future self
• Sketch something badly every day without judging yourself
• Create a “life soundtrack” playlist
• Memorise a short poem or speech

Learning & Growth

• Read a book from a genre you never read
• Complete a free online course on a random topic
• Learn one new recipe from scratch
• Learn the basics of a new language on an app

Movement & Environment

• Walk a different route every day for a week
• Try a new form of exercise just once
• Declutter one drawer or shelf a day
• Visit a free museum or gallery
• Plant something and watch it grow

Connection & Kindness

• Handwrite a thank-you note
• Do one random act of kindness a week
• Volunteer for one event or cause

Wellbeing & Mindset

• Start a five-minute journalling habit
• Set a 30-day challenge
• Build a reverse bucket list

How to Make the Most of it.

• Keep it small: Focus on curiosity, not performance
• Balance it out: Mix ease with small challenges
• Celebrate often: Every small win counts
• Stay open: A side quest might just change your direction

Your turn

What side quest could you start this week to shake things up?

Choose one. Keep it light. Start today.

And if you’ve got a favourite side quest or tiny experiment that changed you—even a little—let me know. I’d love to hear it.