When I first stumbled upon the quest to find my passion, I was baffled.
Everywhere I turned, I faced the daunting question, “How do I discover my true passion?”
But here’s the twist: it’s not about finding it; it’s about uncovering what’s already within you.
As a founder, let me walk you through my journey and share five practical exercises that reshaped my path.
These aren’t just steps; they’re the bricks that paved my way to a career filled with passion and purpose.
Exercise #1: The Inner Compass
Know Thyself: Start with the basics. Ask yourself simple, everyday questions like:
Which websites do I gravitate towards for relaxation and entertainment?
What genres or sections do I first wander to in a bookstore or on Netflix?
When did I last get so absorbed in an activity that I lost track of time?
What hobbies or interests have consistently piqued my curiosity?
These questions might seem trivial, but trust me, they’re your breadcrumbs. Follow them, and you’ll start to see patterns that point to your passion. Use a highlighter to mark words that resonate with you — trust your gut here.
Exercise #2: Your Tribe’s Wisdom
Ask Your Trusted Circle: Identify three people who you can be real with — those who you respect and trust. They might not be your closest day-to-day contacts; sometimes, those who are a step away can offer more objective insights. Pose them these questions:
What passions or talents do you see in me?
What career or role do you think I’d excel in?
Is there a skill I possess that you’d pay to learn?
Don’t overthink their answers. Look for recurring themes that light a spark in you.
Exercise #3: Explore the Uncharted
Digging into Opportunities: Now, take those highlighted words and start exploring. Dive into indeed.com or similar platforms and type in phrases related to your interests. You might be surprised by the range of opportunities that align with your passions. Remember, this is about exploration, not qualification. If a role piques your interest, highlight it!
Exercise #4: Getting Practical
Facing Reality: Back to the drawing board. Consider these questions:
What salary do I need versus what I want?
What work environment suits me best?
What are my long-term goals and life circumstances?
This isn’t just daydreaming. It’s about aligning your passion with practical life considerations.
Exercise #5: Expand Your Network
Network with Purpose: Networking isn’t just schmoozing; it’s a treasure hunt for insights. Reach out to individuals in the roles you’re curious about. Ask them real questions about pay, the industry’s future, and what it takes to succeed. Each conversation is a step closer to understanding if this path aligns with your passion and practical needs.
Bringing Passion into Your Current Role
The Pro Tip: You don’t always have to leap into a new career. Sometimes, it’s about infusing your current role with your passion. If a full switch isn’t feasible, think about how you can pivot within your industry. For instance, if you’re passionate about food and work in sales, why not sell for a food-related company?
It’s Not Just About the Job
Remember, your job doesn’t define you. There are many ways to foster growth and fulfillment. Volunteer, take up a hobby, or simply dedicate time to what you love. You’re more than your 9–5.
Wrapping Up
So there you have it, my fellow founders.
These exercises are more than steps; they’re the foundation of your success. It’s about uncovering what lies within you, aligning it with your career, and making room for it in your everyday life.
Embrace your passion, and let it be the driving force behind your entrepreneurial journey.
Remember, you don’t just work to live; you live to work on what ignites your soul.
Thank you for reading!
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