Oh, I agree. Developing the heart of the story is, without a doubt, my biggest “blind spot” as M.A. Phillips refers to them. And, by the way, thank you for taking the time to shed light on them, I really appreciate this.
So, looking at the MC Throughline, I think we can build the following:
DOMAIN: Activity Dancing, Painting, Writing, Singing, Acting, etc.
CONCERN: Obtaining To receive acknowledgement from the world at large of his own self-worth
ISSUE: (Approach vs. Attitude) Plagued with low self-esteem, and mocked by friends and family, the MC seeks acknowledgement from the world at large to prove to those who don’t believe in him that they are wrong
PROBLEM: Reconsider He’s always re-evaluating which venue to achieving his goal, always looking for the next best thing
SOLUTION: Consider If only he evaluated the worth/value of his endeavors and recognized his goal is within his grasp through those who already love / need him
SYMPTOM: Logic People around him – perhaps a father figure? – points out his long string of failures and states he hasn’t made anything out of his life.
RESPONSE: Feeling He lashes out at those who “accuse” him of not making anything out of his life, “Where are your dreams? Where are your ambitions? What have you ever done with your life?” He states, “I’ll prove you wrong!” Then, after the dust settles, feels like crap because deep down inside, he knows they’re right. He’s worthless.
UNIQUE ABILITY: Approach The MC is relentless in his approach, never stopping to take a breather, always on the go.
CRITICAL FLAW: Delay The MC puts off until later making decisions that can help ground his life (getting a job, getting married, etc.).
BENCHMARK: Understanding As the story progresses, the MC understands more and more the futility of his endeavors and, at the end, that he is his own worst enemy. But despite all his understanding, continues on the same path.