The Real Purpose Of Passion

We've all heard that passion is important, but we rarely discuss why. The assumption is that we know why, but do we really?

Doing what you love is certainly the preferred (and most enjoyable) way to spend your time, but does it truly serve a purpose? Can qualities such as competency, discipline, work ethic, and professionalism get the same results without the emotion?

The answer is yes.

But if the question is can the aforementioned qualities get the same results over a number of years, during challenges and strife? The answer is no, and here are the reasons why:

Passion breeds sustainability. Sustainability means using a resource so that it lasts and renews, doesn’t get used up, and doesn’t have a negative impact on its environment.

Passion prevents career burnout. Discipline and professionalism enable you to endure adversity; passion enables you to transcend it. Passion also enables you to transform competency into mastery - which is why you should study, and practice, what you love.

Neuroscience teaches us that there is a solid relationship between emotional arousal and cognition in humans. Emotions produce glucose in the brain which is key for memory consolidation. In other words, as you have experienced in your life, you retain and recall information that you are personally and passionately interested in; making you a better learner and practitioner.

Finally, passion, when coupled with competency, discipline, work ethic, and professionalism are a proven formula for career achievement, I'd be remiss if I didn't point out its role in life fulfillment.

After all, no one spends their final hours in a hospital room thinking..."I wish I spent more time doing the things I wasn't passionate about..."

Make your passion your purpose.