The phrase, “Discover your passion,” has been thrown around extensively in recent years, leading to a lot of helpful things, but also some that can throw you off track.
Today we’ll look into methods that really work and rule out those that aren’t helpful.
Reflection: “You won’t learn what you like or what you want to do until you try sh**.” - Neil Patel: NY Times bestselling author and Wall Street Journal’s top influencer on the web.
You’ve probably heard a whole slew of opinions about what helps you discover and implement your passions in life.
Ideas such as:
● Think back to what you liked or did as a child
● Ask others what they think you should do
● Take detailed (and typically expensive) personality tests
● Make sure your passion will lead you into your ideal career path
While there is some limited merit to these suggestions, they’re not important guidelines. Some could even be called myths. While it’s true that children are naturally curious, ask loads of questions, and get excited about new activities, when they don’t like doing something, they’ll bail.
The reason childhood interests aren’t necessarily a great help is that much of what intrigued you as a child changed as you aged.
Former interests have been outgrown. Suggestions from others may confirm skills and talent, but if people only view your outward actions, they’ll overlook inner desires that you alone sense are there.
Taking psychological or personality tests are potentially helpful but can also be overkill. Psychologists will tell you that test results can change based on your emotions at the time a test is taken or render different results a year or two later.
Lastly, while finding a “dream job” is wonderful, passion doesn’t always translate to a career. Sometimes passion is simply a creative outlet, a stress-reliever, or just plain fun.
Action: So, what are some tried and true methods of uncovering your passion that really can help you make sense of what motivates/satisfies you?
Answer these questions:
● What are some things you do really well?
● What actions and activities give you energy?
● What could you do all day and not get bored?
● What makes you lose track of time?
● What topic could you read books or blogs about, and never get tired of it?
Keep your answers handy for the rest of this 5-day challenge. Tomorrow we’ll unpack how taking action and breaking unhelpful habits combine to strengthen passion. See you then!
