Not all obligations are imposed externally. Sometimes we impose obligations upon ourselves, as was described in this very post. And such personal obligations usually help us grow and become better. Another phrase for this phenomenon?
Personal responsibility.
I found personal growth from taking on this project. More from the interactions with others and hearing their views on various and a wide range of things, I still find myself learning more about random things every day, even my own views and the flaws they hold.
I must try the things I say will make a change or I am just another candle hiding fro the wind.