Moby Dick: A Story Regarding Belief And Delusion (And Why You Shouldn't Always Catch The Whale)

At times, we find ourselves pursuing our own version of the great white whale, that enormous, elusive goal that takes over our thoughts and energy. We become like Captain Ahab, fixated on that one thing we believe will bring us true satisfaction or fulfillment. But don’t you ever step back and think that maybe the whale is just too big? Not only is it out of reach, but even if you do manage to catch it, your life or your "ship" might not be ready for what comes next.

We've all experienced this — facing a goal that seems attainable if we just push ourselves a little harder, work longer hours, or sacrifice more of our personal lives. But here’s the tough reality: sometimes, it’s not about whether you can catch the whale, but whether you actually should. Even if you manage to harpoon it, where will you keep it? Your boat might not be equipped for something so enormous, and trying to make space for it could upset everything else you’re balancing. Recognizing that isn’t a failure — it’s wisdom.

In this light, we should channel our inner Ishmael, the one who survives by knowing when to let go and live to fight another day. Ishmael isn’t the one obsessively chasing the whale; he’s the observer, the one who assesses the situation and ultimately survives by understanding his own limits. There are times in life when you have to acknowledge that you’re not in a position to take on the whale right now. It doesn’t mean your dream is over — it just means this isn’t the right time to try to bring something so massive into your life.

Life is all about timing, after all. Sometimes, your boat is already full — filled with obligations, other dreams, and the life you’ve created. In those moments, adding the burden of a whale, no matter how much you desire it, could capsize your ship. There’s a quiet strength in knowing when to change course or even when to drift for a while, waiting for the right moment to make your next move.

So sometimes, in the heat of the roaring waters, it would be sometimes wise to not be an Ahab, but be an Ishmael- to where you might hunt for another day, and preferably, a whale of your own size.