How To Find Your Passion
Many of us struggle with finding that one thing that keeps us going. This leads to a lack of focus and direction. With such a challenge we may end up going for things that aren't fulfilling. If you are struggling to find your passion, don’t worry, you are not alone.
Finding your passion can be a life-changing experience. It gives you a sense of purpose, direction, and motivation. Passion is the powerful force that keeps us going and fills us with meaning, joy and anticipation. It's what wakes us up each morning, motivates our goals and ambitions and fuels our consistency in pursuing them.
Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” - Oprah Winfrey
Here are some tips on how to find your passion.
1. Reflect on your interests and values
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What do you value in life? Make a list of your hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. This will give you a starting point to explore your passions.
2. Try new things
Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Try new experiences, hobbies, and activities. You never know what might spark a passion.
3. Get involved in your community
Volunteering, attending events, and joining clubs are great ways to meet new people and find out what they are passionate about. This can provide inspiration and ideas for what you might be passionate about as well.
Sign up here for the Menta.Africa Form Four Leavers program to find out more and participate in giving back to your community.
4. Seek advice from others
Talk to friends, family, and mentors about their passions. Ask them what they enjoy about their work or hobbies and how they found their passions.
5. Find a mentor
Having a mentor who is passionate about what they do can be extremely helpful. They can give you advice, support, and guidance as you explore your passions. Through mentorship you get to learn faster and broadly explore your passions from someone who is experienced than you would on your own.
Show me a successful individual and I’ll show you someone who had real positive influences in his or her life. I don’t care what you do for a living—if you do it well I’m sure there was someone cheering you on or showing the way. A mentor.” – Denzel Washington
6. Take a career assessment test
These tests can help you determine your strengths and interests, and match you with careers that align with them.
To learn more about career aptitude tests click here.
7. Follow your gut
Trust your instincts. If you have a strong feeling about something, it may be worth exploring.
Finding your passion is a journey, not a destination. Don’t expect to find it overnight. Take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process of discovery. And most importantly, remember that it's okay if your passion changes over time. What's important is that you are true to yourself and pursuing what makes you happy.