Passion - Getting Clear

I had the opportunity to attend a presentation by Janet and Chris Attwood, the authors of The Passion Test this past weekend. In addition to talking about their own and others’ interesting stories, they led the audience through the first steps of the Test itself. Here’s a glimpse into how it works:

List 10 things which will make your life and your work ideal, which when accomplished, will make you feel fulfilled and complete. Complete the sentence, “when my life is ideal I am…”

Now starting with the first one, compare its importance in your life to the next one and the next one and so on. (as if you could only choose one or the other) If another takes priority, then begin comparing that one with the others that follow. Do this exercise until your top 5 come to light. These are your passions.

If they don’t seem very clear at this point, go back to step one. I did and each time I got a little clearer. The authors say “When you are clear, what you want will show up in your life, and only the extent you are clear.”

There are more steps such as creating markers or identifiers of what will be happening when you are living these passions, vision boards, and action plans of things you can do right now to start living your passions. Each step helps you get closer to what truly drives you and is most important.

There’s no doubt in my mind that living our passions makes us happier, more successful and fulfilled. Here’s what Scottish theologian and author, William Barclay (1907-1978) had to say: “There are two great days in a person’s life – the day we are born and the day we discover why.” We each have unique gifts derived from our passions. All we have to do is identify them and then use to them to enrich not only our own lives, but those of others too.

Interested enough to find out more? Purchase the book or take it online at http://www.passiontestonline.com/, where it asks you for a small donation. This exercise of delving into your core is very worth the money and time. Build your life – personal and work – around what matters to you most.