Most people don’t start out knowing what they want to be when they grow up. And those that do often discover later in life they made the wrong choice. It’s not uncommon to become completely disengaged from what your younger self was sure was a true calling.You’ll also learn some new ways to think about how passion can fit into your life and how to sustain it through the inevitable challenge
1. Make a list of 100 Aspirations
Making a list of 100 Aspirations taps into the power of self-expression.Your list to help guide you towards a career you can be passionate about. Remember that pursuing a passion might not always mean changing careers.Your greatest passion doesn’t have to be the thing that keeps a roof over your head. You may find meaning in your life outside of the office, perhaps by supporting a social cause, spending more time with friends and family, or focusing on a hobby
2. Talk about your potential passions
One of the best ways to start getting more comfortable with those feelings is to start talking about your dreams.
When you talk about your aspirations at this stage, make sure you choose the right person. What you don’t want is criticism or reasons you can’t or shouldn’t pursue these dreams. The goal right now is only to experience what it feels like to speak your heart dreams out loud, to yourself and someone you trust.
3. Focus on one goal (not a dream)
You may have a ton of ideas on what you might be passionate about. Chasing after too many passions will make it difficult to find enough time to see results. To make real change, you’ll need to learn how to prioritize your life around your most important goals.When you made your list of aspirations and started talking about some of your passions, this was a creative, heart-centered exercise. But making a big change requires planning and action.
4. Express yourself creatively
If you still feel stuck in discovering your passion, I suggest participating in creative activities. Research suggests that things like expressive writing, dance, visual arts therapy and music can help relieve stress and process life events. You’ll open your mind to make new connections and encourage your brain to find new ways to answer, “What is my passion?”Don’t be afraid to return to a passion that has sat dormant.
5. Create a vision statement
Visualization is a powerful technique. Studies show that imagining yourself achieving something actually improves your chances of success. you can create a vision board. Take a poster board or bulletin board. Cut out magazine clippings and create a collage of your goals. They can include words, phrases or pictures that relate to your passion.
6. Set small goals
When you recognize those big heart dreams, you know which direction you need to go. But passion, without action, won’t lead you forward.Neuroscientists have discovered a great bio-hack to help. Research has found that your brain releases a feel-good neurotransmitter called dopamine each time you complete a task. You set yourself up for success by breaking down a big goal into smaller tasks. Break down your goal into small steps. Give yourself enough space and flexibility for you to attend to them.
7. Explore, experiment, evaluate
Angela Nelson saw a world-class pole dancer win a competition. Angie set out that very month to learn how to turn her gymnastic and dance background into pole dancing. Five years later, she won the US title. Two years after that, she opened her own studio, Moxy Movement.
Sometimes we don’t know what we want until we see other people doing something that speaks to us. So get out there and witness the world and what other folks are doing.
8. Get an accountability partner
Studies show that sharing your goals with a friend will improve your chances of succeeding. Look for someone who can support you without judgment.
If you don’t have anyone in your circle, you can join groups and forums online, or even set up a more formal mastermind group of people who have a similar goal or passion.This support system is crucial to staying on the path, refocusing when you get off track and making steady progress.
9.Speak with a coach or mentor
As you work to develop a new passion, whether it’s a career goal or a personal hobby, a mentor can guide you with the benefit of their experience. They’ve already faced the challenges you’re facing now and you can learn from how they moved forward.
If you don’t have access to mentorship in the field of your new passion, consider reaching out to a coach. Skilled business coaches can help you chart a path through work and business transitions.
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Writer,
Tabassum Akter Taba
Intern at Content Writing Department
YSSE