The Power Of Passion: A Key To Fulfillment In Life

How embracing passion can transform your work, relationships, and overall well-being

Passion – it's not just an emotion, but a driving force that distinguishes human beings from mere robots. It's that intense, overmastering feeling, that ardent affection for something, or that burning desire to devote yourself to an activity, an object, or a concept. Passion is what adds color to our lives, making it vibrant and fulfilling.

Let's start with a little thought experiment. Picture one of your friends or co-workers with these personality traits:
 

• They lack enthusiasm for everything.
• Their once-vibrant personality has dimmed, and they've become indifferent.
• They approach life, work, relationships, and everything else with a sense of apathy.

Now, ask yourself, what kind of success do you think this person will achieve? Would they inspire you or anyone else? Would they even inspire themselves? Most likely not!

So, here's the million-dollar question: Are you passionate about everything in your life? I mean, absolutely everything. If your answer is a resounding "Yes," that's fantastic! But if not, let's delve into what that means.

As a side note, just so you know, I write these articles as much for myself as for others.

It's essential to understand that without passion, you cannot be fully engaged or experience true fulfillment in your life. It's like living each day in black and white when life has so much more to offer in dazzling color!

What happens when you lack passion?
 

• At work, you become slow to react, and your indifference makes you less likely to get promotions or raises.
• In a marriage where passion has faded, what was once a great relationship can gradually wither away.
• Parents disinterested in their children's lives risk creating a rift in their relationships.
• When individuals lack passion for life, they may isolate themselves, miss out on life's pleasures, and, in extreme cases, even face depression or worse.

A lack of passion is essentially self-centered behavior; it directs your attention inward, away from the wealth of opportunities around you.

Being passionate about your life is a choice, and while you may offer excuses, in the end, the power to decide is in your hands.

Passion at Work

Your passion at work often stems from connecting with your purpose. If you're passionate about flying but stuck in a retail job, there's a clear disconnect. But remember, you still have the power to engage with your desire to fly. Start planning your path to where you truly want to be.

If you're unhappy with your job, it's crucial to take responsibility for your situation. Even if you don't plan to stay in that role forever, give it your best effort today. Be the kind of employee who leaves a positive mark, because references are invaluable when you move on.

Passion in Relationships

Consider "Love Your Choice," a great book on relationships. We've discussed how input equals output in previous articles. If you focus on the negatives in your partner or others, you'll only amplify negative feelings. Choose passion instead, and you might be surprised by the transformation.

Some of you may be thinking about how "unlovable" your partner is. But consider this: you often receive what you give. Be passionless in your interactions, and that's what you're likely to get in return. This applies to relationships with relatives and friends as well.

Passion in Life

Life is brimming with opportunities. Express your enthusiasm in every moment – at work, in the grocery store checkout line, during your hobbies, and in your recreational activities.

In professional sports, you can easily spot athletes who have lost their passion for the game. Many retired players express that they could still contribute physically, but they've lost the fire that once fueled their love for the sport.

Passion is a prerequisite for experiencing fulfillment and engagement in life. While some may go overboard with their enthusiasm, what's important is having the confidence and commitment to be passionate about everything you do.

Passion is a choice, and it's not determined by your circumstances.

So, let's assess your passion level in all areas of your life. What would others say about it? How would you rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being poor and 10 excellent?

Strive to be as close to 10 as possible in all areas of your life.

Start now. Choose passion over indifference. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Action Steps: Without Passion, Can You Really Experience Fulfillment?

1. Reflect on your passion level in all areas of your life. What do you think others would say about your level of passion?
2. Identify areas where you can improve your passion level in your work, relationships, and life in general. List them now.
3. Remember, passion is a choice. If you find your passion level lacking, don't blame others or your circumstances.
4. If you're in a job or industry you dislike, acknowledge it, and start focusing on what you truly want. Regardless, give your best effort in your current position. A positive mindset will help you reach your next goal.
5. My book & eCourse, "The Quest For Purpose," can guide you in discovering your passion and purpose.
6. Recognize that your relationships often mirror the level of passion and commitment you invest in them. Engaging with more passion can transform your relationships with your partner, children, relatives, and friends.
7. Examine every aspect of your life. What changes can you make to infuse more passion?
8. Remember, fulfillment comes from fully and passionately engaging in life. From this moment on, choose to live every day with passion!

Ken Keis, Ph.D., is an expert on leadership, purpose, and wellness and the foremost global authority on personality and behavioral assessments that increase and multiply your success rate. He is the President and CEO of Consulting Resource Group International, Inc. An internationally known author, speaker, and consultant in the past 32 years, Ken has conducted more than 3000 presentations and 10,000 hours of consulting and coaching. Dr. Keis is the author of Why Aren't You More Like Me?, Deliberate Leadership, and The Quest For Purpose! Connect Ken Keis