What's Your Definition of Passion?

It's a word you hear batted around a lot, especially when talking about creative pursuits and finding your right livelihood. I'm talking about PASSION -- that sometimes elusive beast we all strive to grab ahold of and ride like our lives depended on it.

But what is passion? On his Occupational Adventure blog, Curt Rosengren has a great definition:

"Passion is the energy that comes from bringing more of YOU into what you do."

He also writes, "The energy differential is huge between doing a job that is really an extension of who you are, and a job where you have to wear a mask day in and day out."

Amen to that, brother! I've worked my share of day jobs to pay the bills and make ends meet when I had to. But, thankfully, I never got too comfortable with any of them, regardless of how prestigious the title was or how attractive the paycheck might have been.

Like many people in the workforce, I was never satisfied toiling to fulfill someone else's cause or mission. Not that there's anything wrong with that. If you want stability within a structured environment (and good luck finding that), all the power to you if you're content clocking in and out for a steady income.

But I've always been stubbornly intrigued by the idea of making a living doing something that was a natural reflection of who I am. And that is indeed an excellent source of passion.

For many people, that personal satisfaction can be found with the right job at the right company. For me, it has only been fully found working for myself as a writer, author and publisher (while having the freedom to also enjoy music, acting and art on a part-time basis).

But even if you're not able to make a full-time living doing the thing you're most passionate about, at least engage in it on the side as often as you can. Doing so will help you stay healthy and wise -- oh yeah, and a lot more passionate!