TLC 049: What if you were Passionate?

Don’t read this unless you want to do some real reflection today.

One of the toughest decisions you’ll be troubled with is whether or not to fully chase your passions.

I often ask students or young professionals why they chose their jobs or majors. Any time the beginning of the answer involves what their parents or teachers told them or a path of least resistance, I get worried.

Not because they aren’t good at what they do but because I wonder where they’d be if they decided for themselves, instead of borrowing someone else’s life.

Listen, advice and guidance are great tools for progressing, but these tools can easily become someone driving the car for you instead of with you.

And it’s natural to experience life this way. Growing up you are surrounded by the rules and preferences of others, doing things simply because, “I said so”!

I’m not asking you to reconsider your entire life, I am asking you to think about how well YOU are giving YOU the chance to thrive (in any area).

We’re defining passion as that thing you would do every day if you didn’t lack resources, relationships, or access.

A traditional definition is a strong/barely controllable emotion.

Passion drives you; it causes you to stay up late and wake up early. It’s an undeniable, unstoppable force that has the potential to make your life experience sooo much better.

But there’s a cost.

You might appear “unconventional”.

You might get lonely early on.

You might not see tangible results for days, months, or years.

So, what’s the dilemma? Well, it’s difficult to take a potentially unconventional, lonely journey to a destination you don’t even know exists or not.

But there’s something to consider. Is it as difficult as walking around on autopilot for the remainder of your life wishing excitement and joy will find you?

The right answer is the answer you are most comfortable with.

Announcement: Recruiters, talent acquisition specialists, and hiring managers!

I’d like to spotlight industry leaders like you who are driving innovation in talent acquisition and hiring practices.

Share your invaluable insights, expertise, and the skills you value most in today's ever-evolving job market. New and seasoned professionals are welcomed:

Join the waiting list: https://tally.so/r/wMzqYY

If you are already living 100% within your passion, you should write a book showing the rest of us how you did it.

Otherwise, it’s each of our jobs (individually) to think about what truly fuels us and pursue those things.

What you should do with this

Reflect on your daily tasks and determine which tasks do you participate in that you are passionate about.

• Which ones are most enjoyable? Why?
• Which ones do you despise? Why?
• Which environments do you thrive in (emotionally, mentally, professionally)?
• Which environments bring you anxiety and trouble?

Think about these kinds of open-ended questions that cause you to evaluate whether you’re anywhere near your passions. This will inform your next move.

Be Great,