According to a recent Gallup survey, over 85% of people hate their jobs.
This is a staggering figure.
There has been no other time in the history of work where that number has been so high. Having spent over 7 years at the Gallup Organization, I can vouch for the accuracy of their findings. However, this raises a compelling question: how do individuals manage to muster the motivation to embark on their workday with a mere 15% “passion quotient”?
In a world rich with diverse talents and skills, the key to personal and professional success often lies in pursuing what you excel at and are passionate about. This fundamental principle serves as a timeless formula for fulfillment, achievement, and overall happiness. My early experiences at Gallup instilled in me a pivotal question to ponder: “Do I feel that I can do what I do best every day?” If the answer is “NO,” it might be worthwhile to scrutinize one’s life and seek a more rewarding and fulfilling path.
As a college professor once advised me (when I was on the Pre-Med track), “It’s better to be the best ditch digger than the worst doctor.“
Discovering something you are passionate about transforms it into a source of joy, eliminating the perception of it as mere drudgery or “work.”
The question then needs to be asked: How do we align our actions with our strengths and passions?
Inherent Motivation
Passion acts as a natural motivator. When you engage in activities that align with your interests and strengths, you’re more likely to be self-motivated and persistent in the face of challenges. The enthusiasm derived from doing what you love fuels your drive, making the quest to reach your goals an exciting and fulfilling adventure.
Personal Improvement
When you’re passionate about what you do, the desire for improvement becomes intrinsic. You are more likely to invest time and effort in honing your skills, seeking knowledge, and staying abreast of industry trends. This continuous learning process not only enhances your expertise but also ensures that you remain adaptable and competitive in a rapidly evolving world.
Personal Fulfillment
The pursuit of passion and mastery in your chosen field brings about a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. The satisfaction derived from kicking butt at work, doing what you love, transcends monetary rewards, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. Just look at how many people have left their jobs to pursue their dreams since the pandemic began.
If there’s such a thing as a silver lining to the Covid experience, it is the fact that it helped to crystalize for many what they wanted to do with their lives. It prompted many of us to reassess our careers, and it provided an opportunity to clarify our life goals and aspirations.
In my case, it granted me the courage to step away from the security of a W-2 job and embark on the journey of launching my own search firm.
In the end, doing what you do best and being passionate about it is not just a formula for success; it’s a blueprint for a gratifying and purposeful life. Whether in your career or personal pursuits, aligning your actions with your strengths and passions is a transformative journey that enhances your motivation, creativity, and overall well-being.
As you embark on this path, remember that the pursuit of your passions is not just about achieving success but about living a life that resonates with authenticity and fulfillment.
