How to find your dominant passion?

[Spartan]

Steve has talked a lot in the past about finding your one true passion in life, and making that your focus. Once your true passion and 'purpose' is identified, you can then hopefully become rich and fulfilled like Mr Pavlina.

However, I disagree with the premise that a singular most dominant passion exists. I for one am unable to determine what subject interests me the most.

One day I might be deeply interested in becoming an intellectual of the arts, or an influential philosophical writer, whereas other days I'm interested in psychology, law, sociology, business etc. Recently I'm thinking vocational subjects such as engineering or computer science may be more useful and worthy of pursuit. Technology is what separates modern humans from cavemen, and since technology is always improving, perhaps a dynamic industry like computing would provide an exciting career path to follow?

I feel overwhelmed by how much knowledge is out there, and how much knowledge I'm ignorant to and will always be ignorant to. This is frustrating, I would like to download the world's knowledge into my head, but I will only ever know a small fraction of it.

I am already contemplating doing another degree after I've graduated from my current course, however I still have 2 more years to go! How do you find your one true passion when there are so many roads to go down?

[GrowWear]

Without choosing one vocation, all of your interests will get short shrift. There has to be one main focus, and you have to choose. The best way to do that is to look within and find what brings you joy. It's usually whatever it is that you would do for free -- while living under a bridge.

Your passion, when you find it, won't be about income. It will be about finding out why you are here and what you can do to help others.

Good luck with it!

[liverpool footballer]

Personally, i don't bother about "finding my passion". How the heck do i find it? Trial and error? Okay, i have things i like to do and don't like to do...so what do i do? Spend 2 years with everything i like to do? I just do what i like and trust that my "passion" if it exists, will come to me. Otherwise, you can try using LOA to find out your passion.

[wolfgang]

It reminds me of the saying, "jack of all trades, master of none." But is being a just jack of a trade "bad"? Especially if you are into many things I'd think being a jack of all is equivalent to being a master of one thing, in some way.

Maybe if you have so many interests and can feel jazzed about all of them, the thing to do is to find the common thread in all of them. That it's not so much about the particular interest but about how you approach them.

Like the chess prodigy guy Josh Waitzkin - Official Website that took what he understood from chess mastery into tai chi! And excelled in both.

Also, how much does knowledge really give you? Maybe you can get really good at storing a bunch of things to know. But there's lots more to life than knowing a bunch of stuff. However, what ever you like you will know, I think. But then maybe you like knowing things .

[niche]

To me, it sounds like you passion is knowledge.

[Remiel]

It sounds like you are confusing the message with the medium. Your passion is more about your message than it is your medium. Once you find it you can apply it to any medium really. Some may work better than others but its still possible.

[beautyscientist]

I know the feeling Spartan. I have been interested in lots of different things. And I am 48 now. That is lots of things I have taken an interest in. I don't feel I have missed out by spreading myself thinly. I like having broad interests and don't mind that there is no one thing at which I excel.

[Calimero]

Originally Posted by GrowWear

It's usually whatever it is that you would do for free -- while living under a bridge.

Your passion, when you find it, won't be about income. It will be about finding out why you are here and what you can do to help others.

Good luck with it!

For the first part. What I would do if I were living under a bridge? Nothing! I would do nothing for any-one. I would try to find a blanket to sleep under and find some food.
And if I could not find it for free....I guess I would steal things...as we all have like the instinct to stay alive.
So probably doing nothing is the passion of most people....because if you don't do anything at all the chance to end up living under a bridge is higher and you don't have an income when you just don't do anything at all.

And if you can't help yourself, find a way to have an income and take care about yourself....how could that make you someone able to help someone else?

I did his test a few times. I really wanted to know my purpose, I believed that I had one, and I was happy to find the test...so to finally find out what my purpose was. But really none of the many answers touched me that way that it made me cry none. And if my purpose is to keep on doing the "purpose test 20 minutes" my entire life day after day hour after hour....just because maybe that single answer didn't get out yet....well than I rather live without a big passion or purpose.
I did many different things in my life. Some brought more joy than others, but even the less joyful things enriched my life so much that in fact I am happy not having that one single passion. In the last few years r it seems that I can do whatever I want and feel joy. Feeling Joy is a rather a matter of having a focus on the enjoyable side of your actions, of what you are doing. If I look to the past and see point some of the things as less enjoyable....now I know why I enjoyed them less....only because my focus was not on to find what could be enjoyable about that job or thing.
If I have to wash the dishes I make it enjoyable. And if you can make things enjoyable even when you always had the idea that they would be terrible....it makes you free ....you can learn and experience more than stick to one single passion.
But there are limits of course. I don't see myself killing people or try to find the enjoyable part of that. To give just one example.

I don't think everyone has to serve one single purpose or is just out here for one single purpose.
To give an example. Many women get children. Biologically they are built to do so. But mentally not all women seem to enjoy to be only full time mothers. Does it mean that women that can't enjoy playing full time mother should not have children and only stick to that other purpose ? That only other passion? I don't think so.
Most of us have more than one one purpose.

[Spartan]

I've noticed that whenever I feel really passionate about something, it's usually because of some ignorance on my part.

For example, when I was younger I felt very passionate about football and thought I coud become a great football player. But I was ignorant of the dedication and talent that would have been required to achieve that goal.

When I hear stories of other peoples' success, I often feel passionate that I could achieve similar success, but I am ignorant of the work and dedication those people put into achieving that success.

When I first strarted going to the gym I felt really passionate about working out, but I was ignorant of the work and dedication required to achieve good results.

Once I realise the sheer work and dedication involved in achieving a certain goal, I often feel less passionate about it. For example, I still go to the gym, but I don't feel as passionate about it as when I first started.

It's the same with any subject. When I'm concerned with a subject from my own (ignorant) perspective, I can feel very passionate about it. However, when I look at the subject from a wider perspective and see the bigger picture, I realise how much I don't know compared to others and I start to feel overwhelmed.

When I find a subject that I feel deeply passionate about, even after looking at it from the wider (less ignorant) perspective, I know I'll have found a lasting passion. Until then I will keep dabbling.

[coLLege kid07]

Originally Posted by Spartan

I've noticed that whenever I feel really passionate about something, it's usually because of some ignorance on my part.

For example, when I was younger I felt very passionate about football and thought I coud become a great football player. But I was ignorant of the dedication and talent that would have been required to achieve that goal.

When I hear stories of other peoples' success, I often feel passionate that I could achieve similar success, but I am ignorant of the work and dedication those people put into achieving that success.

When I first strarted going to the gym I felt really passionate about working out, but I was ignorant of the work and dedication required to achieve good results.

Once I realise the sheer work and dedication involved in achieving a certain goal, I often feel less passionate about it. For example, I still go to the gym, but I don't feel as passionate about it as when I first started.

It's the same with any subject. When I'm concerned with a subject from my own (ignorant) perspective, I can feel very passionate about it. However, when I look at the subject from a wider perspective and see the bigger picture, I realise how much I don't know compared to others and I start to feel overwhelmed.

When I find a subject that I feel deeply passionate about, even after looking at it from the wider (less ignorant) perspective, I know I'll have found a lasting passion. Until then I will keep dabbling.

Try listening to Erin's podcast. I'd have to say my passion was in the same area yours was. I was extremely passioniate about football possibly to an unhealthy degree, and yet I'm 5"9' and pack on about 140 lbs; No chance of ever playing professionally or collegiate for that matter. If you want to follow your passion it's about giving up that security blanket and going after what you really want. As for me right now I've discovered that I share that same passion in music...so music industry here I come. (no experience whatsoever in the industry other than playing a saxophone =/)

[coLLege kid07]

Originally Posted by Calimero

For the first part. What I would do if I were living under a bridge? Nothing! I would do nothing for any-one. I would try to find a blanket to sleep under and find some food.
And if I could not find it for free....I guess I would steal things...as we all have like the instinct to stay alive.
So probably doing nothing is the passion of most people....because if you don't do anything at all the chance to end up living under a bridge is higher and you don't have an income when you just don't do anything at all.

And if you can't help yourself, find a way to have an income and take care about yourself....how could that make you someone able to help someone else?

I did his test a few times. I really wanted to know my purpose, I believed that I had one, and I was happy to find the test...so to finally find out what my purpose was. But really none of the many answers touched me that way that it made me cry none. And if my purpose is to keep on doing the "purpose test 20 minutes" my entire life day after day hour after hour....just because maybe that single answer didn't get out yet....well than I rather live without a big passion or purpose.
I did many different things in my life. Some brought more joy than others, but even the less joyful things enriched my life so much that in fact I am happy not having that one single passion. In the last few years r it seems that I can do whatever I want and feel joy. Feeling Joy is a rather a matter of having a focus on the enjoyable side of your actions, of what you are doing. If I look to the past and see point some of the things as less enjoyable....now I know why I enjoyed them less....only because my focus was not on to find what could be enjoyable about that job or thing.
If I have to wash the dishes I make it enjoyable. And if you can make things enjoyable even when you always had the idea that they would be terrible....it makes you free ....you can learn and experience more than stick to one single passion.
But there are limits of course. I don't see myself killing people or try to find the enjoyable part of that. To give just one example.

I don't think everyone has to serve one single purpose or is just out here for one single purpose.
To give an example. Many women get children. Biologically they are built to do so. But mentally not all women seem to enjoy to be only full time mothers. Does it mean that women that can't enjoy playing full time mother should not have children and only stick to that other purpose ? That only other passion? I don't think so.
Most of us have more than one one purpose.

Listen to Erin's podcast on passion. Really it shouldn't be too hard to find. (I take this back if it really is.) What do you really like to do. What would you spend the rest of your life doing if money, security, (list category here) were no problem? First and foremost trusting yourself is the most important thing you can do...if you believe this is all bs, don't listen to me and do your own thing. Remember everything everyone tells you is to "guide" you...we can't take over your life/force you to do anything. If it doesn't resonate with you disregard it. hope that helps.

[Calimero]

Originally Posted by coLLege kid07

Listen to Erin's podcast on passion. Really it shouldn't be too hard to find. (I take this back if it really is.) What do you really like to do. What would you spend the rest of your life doing if money, security, (list category here) were no problem? First and foremost trusting yourself is the most important thing you can do...if you believe this is all bs, don't listen to me and do your own thing. Remember everything everyone tells you is to "guide" you...we can't take over your life/force you to do anything. If it doesn't resonate with you disregard it. hope that helps.

Haven't listened to the podcast yet. But I will do so as soon as possible. I first would like to thank you for you reaction to start from.
Well at this moment money and security are not a problem. I don't have a job, I don't go working for a boss and I am not earning any money at this very moment. But every basic thing I need is available. I mean, a roof above my head, food, some clothes, water and stuff for hygiene, some electricity.
I have this laptop and an internet connection as well but I don't see it as a basic need. I have to agree that it is here more for some entertainment than a real basic need. I don't feel insecure about having all that without having to work for money.
So I am right in a position that I could do just only that what I like to do.
And do you think that I do just only one single thing? No I don't. Because there is not only one thing that I like to do.
Today I have been doing some work in the house out here, as the building is old and can be improved. And I am happy about the result of my work today and it was fun.
What I am going do tomorrow I don't know yet for sure. I decide mostly when I wake up in the morning.
K of course there are things that I do on a regular basis as they are basic. For me that is to eat, drink, wash myself, keep the house clean and tidy, practice some yoga, take care about plants in the house and in the garden (in the garden it is mainly stuff to eat). But I really enjoy all these different things that I do on regular basics. I never feel like "oh why the hell do I have to work in the garden I rather do something else that I love more". And when I am on a renovation project in the house I don't have the feeling....."oh why can't a carpenter do this work so that I can go for a swim". I really like all these different things to do.
I improve many different skills in that way of living and I just enjoy it.I know maybe I am crazy compared to other people. But the way I feel is free and independent. And it feels so nice that I can enjoy all the things I do.
I know a lot of mechanics now, of constructions in the house, I can cook very good, I am able to grow some food, I can do the laundry, I can do nearly anything without feeling bored.

I try to imagine how life would be if I had only that one passion.
I would try to fill up my days with that passion as all the other things would not bring enough joy.....so it means that I would have to rely on many other people to get jobs done that are not in the range of my passion.
In some way that sounds great, just doing one thing your whole life and so enjoy it the rest of your life, while other people get the rest done for you.
But then again. What kind of things that I do now would I prefer to be done by others in return for money or my services? My answer at this very moment is, none. The things that I do for myself I do them with joy and they are well executed. Is it possible that other people can do those things even better than I can? Of course....and they can do them for themselves and be proud of the result and enjoy the work as much as I do.
Am I just a selfish person?

I will listen to the podcast later.

[Calimero]

Originally Posted by coLLege kid07

Listen to Erin's podcast on passion.

I went to look for this podcast, but when I go for the link of Erin's podcast on passion I always end up in the list of podcast of Steve. So I listened to his podcast on life purpose. He explains more than in his article but still.

Now the thing I know about passion is that those who follow it can become heroes or fools, there is nothing in between if you follow passion.

Steve speaks of passion and desire. And I have no desire at this time for anything.
There was a time that I had the desire to live a quite life, in peace with myself. But as I live now that peaceful life there is no desire for it anymore.
And the funny thing is, that peace can be only found when you have no more desires.
Oh now I am lying a bit ....I had the desire to find that huge life purpose where so many are talking about....but the more I hear about it, the less I desire for it, because desire does disturb me to live in peace with myself and people around me.
So thanks for you advices. I 'll go without passion and desire and choose for living in peace with myself and all that surrounds me.
I found what I desired for years ago, so why should I give that one up to rush again for new desires that will not give me peace.

[coLLege kid07]

Originally Posted by Calimero

I went to look for this podcast, but when I go for the link of Erin's podcast on passion I always end up in the list of podcast of Steve. So I listened to his podcast on life purpose. He explains more than in his article but still.

Now the thing I know about passion is that those who follow it can become heroes or fools, there is nothing in between if you follow passion.

Steve speaks of passion and desire. And I have no desire at this time for anything.
There was a time that I had the desire to live a quite life, in peace with myself. But as I live now that peaceful life there is no desire for it anymore.
And the funny thing is, that peace can be only found when you have no more desires.
Oh now I am lying a bit ....I had the desire to find that huge life purpose where so many are talking about....but the more I hear about it, the less I desire for it, because desire does disturb me to live in peace with myself and people around me.
So thanks for you advices. I 'll go without passion and desire and choose for living in peace with myself and all that surrounds me.
I found what I desired for years ago, so why should I give that one up to rush again for new desires that will not give me peace.

Well that's great your doing something you love. Passion doesn't necessarly mean droping everything and go after your deepest goals right now. It just means make room for it, and make the space for change. Rome wasn't built in a day remember lol. Oh and yea I guess all the podcasts are listed under steve's name but Erin talks in a few of them...so you could still give the passion a try if you'd like. I thought it was a pretty good podcast nevertheless and I think you'll enjoy it.

[Calimero]

Originally Posted by coLLege kid07

Well that's great your doing something you love. Passion doesn't necessarly mean droping everything and go after your deepest goals right now. It just means make room for it, and make the space for change. Rome wasn't built in a day remember lol. Oh and yea I guess all the podcasts are listed under steve's name but Erin talks in a few of them...so you could still give the passion a try if you'd like. I thought it was a pretty good podcast nevertheless and I think you'll enjoy it.

Hi there.

I finally found her podcast. Didn't know that her podcast would be under his name.
Well it was nice to hear. And I am happy for her that she found what she likes to do in life.
I think I maybe gave another interpretation to the word passion.
And as I wasn't born in the US and didn't grow up with the "Ideal" of the American dream...I never drifted that far away from my natural path as many other people in the US or in Europe.
My parents were not an example of people that went for the American dream thing and so that's probably why it never became my goal.
As they use to call Erin "the witch".( is that spelled right English is my fourth language) they use to call me "stranger" at school. The only difference is that I never left my so called "Strange path".
This path is not a calm path all the time like it is for the moment, but it has always been exciting. In the days that I was at Sea as an engineer in the engine room I made contact with many cultures and loved to live in "the small international community" on board that you call" the crew".
But it is a real community in fact. I lived together with people from different origins and different religious backgrounds. Catholic, Muslim, Christian and Buddhist at the same time present on a moving Island in the middle of the ocean.
And we had no War on board like you see it the larger world or community. Great time you know.
So it seems that only at sea with only a few people; people seem to understand that cooperating is more interesting than fighting and highlighting differences as the large oceans the high waves the heavy storms they don't care about the differences of the crew.....the sea would easy swallow all of us if one would not take his responsibility that he signed up for before rolling on. Well I can't learn people to take the responsibility that they signed up for before being born on earth....I will leave that for Erin to do so. I "ll take mine and try not to bother her in her job, or in Steve' s job. So that I was posting out here and saying things different from them, was only because I didn't knew enough of their backgrounds and misinterpretation of "passion".

Anyway, I am not working at sea anymore...but I managed to learn to sail without engines running on oil. So I "ll find myself in the future at sea again probably but there is no hurry to do so. Time will tell me as I never gave up my strange things.
Lucid dreaming is something that I have since childhood as well and always kept that.

I think the Pavlina tandem is doing good work a good job for mainly those who got stuck in the American dream.
So Pavlinas keep on doing the right thing. I love to read the forums as well.

[Zwynd]

Originally Posted by Spartan

Steve has talked a lot in the past about finding your one true passion in life, and making that your focus. Once your true passion and 'purpose' is identified, you can then hopefully become rich and fulfilled like Mr Pavlina.

That sounded a bit cult-like...

However, I disagree with the premise that a singular most dominant passion exists. I for one am unable to determine what subject interests me the most.

It is the same with me. I enjoy creating but I wouldn't want to do a certain thing every day. For example, I could make illustrations for people and while that could be quite varied I'd be bored of it within a couple of years.

I also like storytelling but I'd tire of people asking me to recite a certain media-hyped poem or religious story that I've no desire to even think about.

One day I might be deeply interested in becoming an intellectual of the arts, or an influential philosophical writer, whereas other days I'm interested in psychology, law, sociology, business etc. Recently I'm thinking vocational subjects such as engineering or computer science may be more useful and worthy of pursuit. Technology is what separates modern humans from cavemen, and since technology is always improving, perhaps a dynamic industry like computing would provide an exciting career path to follow?

If you think like that then one day you may be out of a job. Think of the guy who said decades ago, "I could spend hundreds of dollars getting a diploma in making the best types of typewriters. Forget electronic ones, they're too noisy."

If you're making a career to please others you may end up getting walked on and dumped the moment an upgrade comes along.

Who's to say computers will still be the mainstream in 20 years? For all you know we can have bionic/crystal/plant-like microchips implanted into our neo cortex. Good luck with trying to sell a less buggy version of Windows when that comes around.

I think all you and others [like me] can do is make mini-careers and make as much profit/enjoyment as we can from it all the while setting ourselves up for the newest and more pleasing career.

Keep it moving, I say.

I feel overwhelmed by how much knowledge is out there, and how much knowledge I'm ignorant to and will always be ignorant to. This is frustrating, I would like to download the world's knowledge into my head, but I will only ever know a small fraction of it.

Exactly, don't even try. It's said that Einstein didn't regularily remember his own phone number. Yet this guy contributed to knowledge of splitting an atom.

Work with what you know, bluff what you don't if you can get away with it. Basically, don't show all your cards.

I am already contemplating doing another degree after I've graduated from my current course, however I still have 2 more years to go! How do you find your one true passion when there are so many roads to go down?

By not buying into what others think is a 'good and stable' career. Sure it's good now, but may be extinct in 4 years. Your wonderful diploma could be worthless even before it's handed to you.

If you really want something as a safety net then get a diploma in something that is considered more timeless, like Life or Personal development, Counselling, Policing, etc. Go with careers that work with the basics of a human's needs like hunger, fear, love.

Can't go wrong with that.