A quote commonly attributed to Charles Bukowski says, “Find what you love and let it kill you.” Although this does sound like a toxic relationship, it does apply to one’s passion. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “passion” as “the state or capacity of being acted on by external agents or forces” or an “ardent affection.” Both of these definitions are applicable, especially when it comes to a career path or a lifetime goal.
One common theme in discussions about passion is that people are willing to sacrifice for it. Artists go through grueling days of ideation, self-doubt, mentorship, and propelling the creative process to create a masterpiece. Parents tirelessly take care of their children for decades, and they know no bounds. Professionals continue to learn new things to improve their job performances and be the best in their field, even if it means tipping the work-life balance. There’s no wonder that the original meaning of “passion” is said to be “a willingness to suffer for what you love.”
As people grow older and discover themselves, “find your passion” is a phrase that they can never miss. It’s in this phase that people are reminded to choose what makes them happy. Even if work can be tiring, as long as you’re doing what you’re passionate about, a promise of fulfillment comes after. Finding your passion requires a lot of introspection, honing your skills, and self-awareness. What does it take to know one’s passion?
What are your interests?
Through the years, people have been exposed to different books, media, and people. This has been the case since they were kids. Because of this, they have discovered different things and careers that may have sparked their interest. They could be into music, stories, space, aircraft, etc. Finding your interests is important when it comes to work because your interests can also be your strengths and where you find contentment.
What are you willing to know more about?
Most of the time, your interests are the things you are curious about. Say, you’re interested in knowing more about space. As a result, you read up on celestial bodies, new discoveries of NASA, the moon, etc. If you like baking, it will most likely turn into a hobby, and as this progresses, you learn new recipes so you won’t have to buy gluten-free bread and pastries when you want to try them out. Pay attention to what catches your attention and manages to retain it.
Remember to hone your knowledge.
It’s not enough to know what you want to become and what you want to do for the rest of your life. It should be a continuous learning process. When time and money permits, see the world. Read more books and journals. Sign up for classes and workshops. Talk to other people in your field and learn from them. Finding one’s passion does not mean finding its final form. It means shaping and nourishing it to become something you are contented with. It requires time, effort, dedication, and hard work. Hence, the Charles Bukowski quote.
