How Do We Learn Our Passions?
We’re all asked at a young age, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “What do you want to do?” maybe your parents said, “You’ll be a doctor!” or “You’ll be the President!”. There’s nothing wrong with others making suggestions when you’re growing up, but there comes a time when you have to figure this out for yourself.
Some people learn early on what their passions are and what they’re destined to do. Others live out their whole lives afraid if they try then they will fail and then never figure out their passions. I think most people get through schooling, first job, a bit of career experience (maybe try two or three different things) and then can start to hone in on their passions and their talents.
Finding our passion is as simple as it is complicated. Write down your answer to each of these to hopefully have some introspection.
What are your interests?
What do you do in your spare time?
What do your friends say you like?
If you ask a friend what you’re passion about, what would they say?
What topic do you find yourself coming back to frequently?
What could you spend hours tirelessly talking about?
After answering these questions, you should have a better idea of what you are interested in and passion about.
If you find your passions (it can be multiple) then start writing down your relevant skills and values you have that align with the passions. Is it something you’re actively involved in? Is it your hobby? Are you volunteering for it? Would you ever do an internship to learn more?
The biggest question you should ask yourself is, does my passion align with my current job/career and if not, how can I use it to further my career? I believe everyone should enjoy what they do, and if you’re passionate about your work, then you will likely have a better work ethic and work happiness.
This isn’t to say it won’t be work. Don’t believe the “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” saying. No matter how passionate you are about a topic, no matter how much you enjoy working on or with your passion, there will always be pieces that are difficult and mundane and you will absolutely hate. But this is balanced out by being able to work on what you love most to do day in and day out. The mundane will only be a small percentage so you can focus on the parts you like to get you through the rough patches.
In the end, I hope to help you explore your passion and get you on the right track to having a fulfilling career and ultimately be happy at work, while also making enough to be comfortable. I believe everyone has the potential to get a better paying job and be happy doing it. It’s hard work, but we won’t be scared of it and we will make it through!