Passion Pursuit: Transform Your Career with These Practical Tips

I talk to many professional women struggling to identify their passion/purpose. It is very common to want “more” while struggling to identify what “more” is. Wanting more from your career can mean a lot of things. You want something that excites you, that makes you jump out of bed in the morning. Finding your passion can be a game-changer, and it’s not just about feeling good; it’s about achieving career satisfaction and finding fulfillment in your professional life. Let's dive into some fun and practical ways to uncover what truly drives you.

Understand What Passion Means

First off, let’s get clear on what passion means. Passion isn't just something you like doing. It’s that deep, driving force that makes you feel alive and gives you purpose. This understanding is crucial for achieving career satisfaction and finding fulfillment in your professional life. When you reflect on what your passion is, eliminate ideas that you think you should do or that may be expected of you from an outside influence. Your passion and your purpose should come from your heart, and when you think about the idea of doing it, you do a fist pump and say, “hell, YES!”

?Reflect on Your Childhood Dreams

Think back to when you were a kid. What did you dream about? Maybe you wanted to be a scientist, a writer, or a dancer. These early dreams often hold clues to your true passions. They may not be feasible or exact, and that’s ok. Take some time to dig deep and remember what used to make you excited and happy. Reconnecting with those interests can reveal passions that have been buried under adult responsibilities.

?Identify Your Strengths and Skills

Everyone has unique strengths and skills. Yes, even YOU. Take some time to figure out what you’re naturally good at. Are you a great communicator? Do you have a knack for organizing? Are you a creative thinker? Matching your strengths with your potential passions can lead to a fulfilling path. Aligning personal strengths and skills with career goals is a key step in discovering true passion in your career.

?Explore New Activities

Get out there and try new things. Step out of your comfort zone and dive into activities you’ve never tried before. Take a cooking class, join a book club, learn a new language, or try painting. The key is to be open-minded and willing to experiment. Exploring new interests can spark a new passion and set you on the journey to discovering your career passion. Sometimes, you may have clarity about your purpose through creative outlets.

?Pay Attention to What Makes You Lose Track of Time

Think about the activities that make you lose track of time. These are often the things you’re passionate about. It could be anything from writing to gardening to solving complex problems at work. When you're so engrossed in something that you forget to check the clock, it’s a sign you’re doing something you love. This realization can be a significant step towards achieving career satisfaction through passion. When I started coaching professional women over 15 years ago, I knew I was close to finding my passion when I felt pure joy and watching them hit milestones and achieve goals. I kept leaning into this and eventually found my passion in creating workshops and courses that help women move forward in their professional and personal lives.

?Seek Feedback from Others

Sometimes, it’s hard to see your own strengths and passions clearly. We are often so consumed with self-doubt and limiting beliefs that we don’t see what may be obvious to others. This is where feedback from friends, family, and colleagues can be super helpful. Ask them what they think you’re good at and what activities they see you enjoying the most. Their insights can provide a new perspective and help you identify your passions.

Notice What Inspires You

Pay attention to what inspires you. What books, movies, or experiences resonate with you? What kind of stories or people do you find inspiring? This can give you clues about your passions. For example, if you're always inspired by stories of entrepreneurs, maybe starting your own business could be your passion. Paying attention to the things that light you up will guide you toward your true calling.

Journal Your Thoughts and Feelings

Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool in discovering your passion. Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Reflect on what activities make you happy and fulfilled. Over time, patterns will emerge, and you'll start to see what truly excites you. This practice of self-discovery for professional growth is invaluable. Journaling is personal; there is no right or wrong way to do it. The important thing to remember is that getting your thoughts on paper is very impactful, whether you write full paragraphs, bullet points, or just random thoughts. Start with 5 minutes a day… and watch the magic happen.

Create a Vision Board

A vision board is a great way to visualize your dreams and goals. Gather images, quotes, and anything else that resonates with you and put them on a board. Seeing your dreams and goals in a visual format can help clarify your passions and keep you motivated. This simple step can lead to a more passion-driven career. You can do this on your computer, on your phone, or on a big posterboard in your office where you can’t help but see it every single day.

Volunteer and Give Back

Volunteering can be a great way to discover your passion. Helping others not only feels good but can also give you insights into what you’re passionate about. Whether it’s working with animals, mentoring young professionals, or helping out at a local food bank, giving back can help you find your true calling and unlock your potential for a fulfilling career. And it just feels good.

?Attend Workshops and Seminars

Workshops and seminars are excellent opportunities to learn from experts and connect with like-minded individuals. Choose topics that interest you, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The knowledge and connections you gain can lead to new passions and opportunities. I am constantly seeking knowledge in all kinds of topics. Currently I am seeking ideas on leadership, AI, and Lean-in Circles. I always try to have something I am actively learning in my life at any given time.

Set Goals and Take Action

Once you've identified potential passions, set goals and take action. Create an action plan with achievable milestones. Remember, finding your passion is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of discovery. These steps to discovering true passion in your career are essential for a fulfilling life.?

Finding your passion is a journey of self-discovery and exploration. It’s about reconnecting with what truly makes you happy and fulfilled. As a professional woman seeking more from your career, embracing this journey can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. So, take the first step, explore new activities, and let your passion lead the way.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to find your passion? Finding your passion is a personal journey and can take time. It varies from person to person. Be patient and enjoy the process of discovery.
2. Can passions change over time? Yes, passions can evolve as you grow and change. What excites you today might differ from what excites you in the future.
3. What if I have multiple passions? It’s perfectly normal to have multiple passions. You can pursue more than one passion, or find ways to integrate them into your life and career.
4. How do I balance my passion with my current job? Start by dedicating small amounts of time to your passion. As you progress, you can look for ways to incorporate it into your job or even make a career change.
5. What if my passion isn't financially viable? Not all passions need to be turned into a career. Some can remain hobbies that bring you joy. However, with creativity and planning, you might find ways to make your passion a viable part of your life.