In today's world, the concept of "passion" is omnipresent. We're constantly encouraged to "find our passion," "follow our passion," and "live passionately." While this advice sounds inspiring, many of us are left wondering, "Where do I even start?" or "Do I even have a passion?"
What if discovering your passion isn't as daunting as it seems? What if, deep down, you already know where to find it because it's inherently part of you? The journey to finding your passion begins with connecting to your true self. This idea is encapsulated in what I call The Marigold Theory.
Imagine planting a marigold seed. It's genetically programmed to grow into a marigold. If you try to force it to become a hollyhock, it will fail and may even perish. Similarly, each of us is born with unique potentials. It's a tragedy if the poppies among us spend their lives trying to be zinnias. Our task is to nurture our original seed and create an environment where it can flourish.
Throughout our day, we experience little bursts of energy triggered by certain events, ideas, or thoughts. This energy comes from our core and propels us into action. This action, inspired from within, is what we call passion. Pay attention to these sparks and follow them!
Opportunities to pursue our passions are often hiding in plain sight. Your passion is that special charge you feel when you're engaged in something you love. It's the activity you always have energy for, no matter how tired you are. It's that natural high you sometimes get.
One spring afternoon, while exploring the historic town of Lebanon, Ohio, I stumbled upon a miniature glass conservatory in a garden store window. Enchanted by its possibilities, I felt a compelling urge to learn how to build one. This thought kept resurfacing, and a few months later, the opportunity to learn presented itself unexpectedly.
When our attention is captured by a new idea or activity, there's often more to it than we initially realize. By following that energy and allowing it to develop, unconscious elements have a chance to unfold. For me, designing these miniature conservatories became a metaphor for creating a new vision for my life.
According to a study by Deloitte, 87.7% of Americans are not passionate about their work. This statistic highlights the importance of finding and nurturing our passions to lead fulfilling lives (source).
Discovering your passion is about connecting with your true self and following the energy that comes from within. By paying attention to the sparks of interest and allowing them to grow, you can create a fulfilling and passionate life.
For a unique opportunity to connect with your inner energy, join CoachVille in a free teleclass about inspiration with Lance Secretan, PhD, an international best-selling author and one of North America's most sought-after keynote speakers. To learn more about this special event, visit CoachVille.
Copyright © Fran Hendrick, 2005. All Rights Reserved.
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