Uncovering our true passions

“You can’t fake passion.

― Barbara Corcoran”        

What sets your world on fire?

When we follow our passions, it’s so much easier to find fulfilment and purpose in our lives. With passion we effortlessly create, innovate and contribute.

But life has a tendency to get in the way. We want to meet others’ expectations. We seize opportunities because they sound good, or we don’t know what else to do. Before we know it, years have passed and our passions are buried deep within. And we wonder why we aren’t fulfilled…

Happiness at work

There’s nothing worse than waking up in the morning and dreading going to work because you don’t enjoy what you do.

According to Indeed’s Work Happiness Score 2021 report, which surveyed more than 1,800 UK organisations across 25 different industries, one-third of workers said they felt unhappy in their job.

Are you one of them?

Do what you love to do

When you follow your passions in life, you’re happier overall. You’re more fulfilled, you feel more uplifted and have a far greater piece of mind.

Conversely, when you put in so many hours doing something you dislike just because it makes you money, it can be difficult to get over the stress that work causes. And this stress can eat away at you when you’re not even working – like in the evenings or at weekends when I’m sure you would rather be spending quality time with your loved ones.

Many people spend the majority of their lives working, so it’s important for your own wellbeing that you at least like your job.

Passions bring fulfilment

Passion is what gives your life meaning. That’s why passions should always be considered – whether you’re thinking about a new job, a new hobby, or something else.

Some people don’t believe they can make a living from their passion. Don’t feel as though you have to measure success in following your passion by whether or not you’re making money from it. Because the true meaning of success isn’t all about money. It’s about being fulfilled. And more importantly, it’s that feeling of success NOW, not tomorrow!

 Just because you don’t think you can make your livelihood from what you’re passionate about, that doesn’t make it true. When we believe we can, we get creative and find a way!

Consider that simply spending some time on your passion can be enough to find fulfilment if you take the time to do it regularly. If that’s the case, find a job that provides you with time and flexibility outside of work to pursue what you’re passionate about.

If you really want to, you’ll be able to turn your passion into your job; you’ll be fulfilled.

It’s not all about the money

In today’s world, we all need a certain amount of money to provide for ourselves and our family. But that doesn’t mean it needs to be your top priority when choosing your career. Ultimately, you’ll do better and be more successful if you find something you genuinely care about doing.

In fact, there’s more chance of achieving money and success when you follow a passion, because you’re more likely to invest time and effort into something you care and are excited about.

If you’re enthusiastic and passionate about something, you’re more likely to be resilient when faced with obstacles. People who are passionate about what they do, rather than just being "in it for the money”, tend to have a positive outlook and find opportunity and growth from every challenge.

So instead of starting by following the money, follow your passion and give all areas of your life a boost.

My story

Like many parents, my husband and I have always wanted the best for our children. We have given them all the opportunities possible to explore who they are and what they love doing. They’ve tried music – oboe, clarinet, piano. They’ve played a variety of sports – from ballet and gymnastics to hockey and climbing. At some point they form an opinion about whether they want to continue doing something or not. It’s hard to know if they should “stick it out longer” or simply stop.

One thing that became clear to me about 18 months ago is that when your child has a true passion, these conversations are irrelevant.

When you don’t have to ask your child to practise. When they spend their spare time engrossed in their favourite activity. When they keep on practising, experimenting, failing and getting up – that’s when you know it’s a real passion.

My daughters have found this in bouldering and in art. And it’s so beautiful to watch.

So when you sense that you’re not fulfilled, spend a moment thinking about what you liked to do as a child. What do you naturally spend your time doing? The more you explore, the more likely you are to uncover your passion.

Book of the month

Mastery: Robert Greene

I was recommended this book earlier this year. I loved listening to it. It’s a long one – rich and full of fascinating case studies.

Many of the masters included were clearly passionate about their field. The narrower the field the better. The more they experimented and were open to the influences around them, the more they were able to challenge the boundaries of their unique field. It’s estimated that it takes 10,000 hours to become a master. I won’t let that put me off at my age!

Mindfulness tip

Take a moment to contemplate. Sit quietly. Concentrate on your breath. On the sounds around you. And when you’re settled, think back to when you were 5 years old.

Recall a time when you were full of joy and happiness. Bring that memory to life, working through each of your senses. Notice how that made you feel deep within.

Then ask yourself what ignites your passion today? Wait and see what you come up with!

In case you missed it

Explore what you’re passionate about with these worksheets

Did you miss my “Quit the Gym… focus on your Mental Fitness” live? Watch here