Finding Your Passion

I love this quote from Nelson Mandela: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” ‘Playing small’ is choosing to stay comfortable and safe in order to avoid the risk of failure, embarrasment or disappointment. As a recovering perfectionist, I have a tendency to live beneath my capabilities because of my fear of failure. But even though it feels safer, I have to agree with Mandela – living that way takes the passion out of life.  Finding your passion means refusing to settle for less than your full potential.

Passionate vs Practical

In my view, living a passionate life means living whole-heartedly and authentically. Living fully present and engaged – not only physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It’s living life from the inside out, rather than the outside in. Don’t get me wrong – we all have days and moments of drudgery. Living from a place of passion doesn’t mean we live life based on every whim and emotion, or life would be very chaotic! I know we need to be practical and pay the bills, and finding your passion doesn’t necessarily refer to a job or career.  But in our intellectual, risk-adverse society, are we nurturing our souls? Are we making room for the things we love so that we take that energy into every area of our lives?

Passion in the Pandemic

During the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, I became more intentional about finding my passion.  All of my obligations and responsibilities (outside of my family) were stripped away.  It was surprising how uncomfortable I was to explore what I want in life.  Meeting needs made sense to me, but asking myself what I want was surprisingly scary. Over time, busyness had numbed my passion without my awareness. Awakening the things in my heart felt like the circulation returning to my feet after sitting on them for hours. A bit of tingling at first, at times painful, and then eventually the freedom of movement returning.

Passion is Possible

Passionate people are inspiring – they have an energy about them, and they do life with a sparkle in their eye. They remind me that finding and living a passionate life is possible for me too! Finding your passion is a process, and it’s not limited to an activity – it’s a journey that never ends. That’s far more exciting than playing it safe and small! Let’s awaken our hearts and refuse to settle for a life that is less than we are capable of living. 😃