(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

Passion radiates. It defies containment, expressing itself.

Some of the demonstrable attributes of passion are: exhibiting a sense of accomplishment; enjoying contributing; seeing the result of efforts as worthwhile and meaningful; interesting; feeling valuable; sensing that one is a part of something worthwhile. And on and on. Some come from the outside and some from within. Passion is palpable.

And it’s effortless, unlike the struggle of pretend. To ‘put on a game face’ takes energy and effort. Trying to ‘be somebody’ drains you. ‘Fake-it-‘til-you-make-it’ doesn’t cut it anymore (as if it ever did). The fear of being found out, of having the facade pierced, uses energy.

Authentic passion adds energy, to you and to those who get to experience your passion.

Passion is not something you make happen. It is a byproduct of something you discover. It is sourced from the quiet background, emerging through the noise of everyday unconscious busyness. The authenticity of passion outs itself.

Passion requires only that you let go of pretending.

 

Coaching Point: When, and about what, are you most passionate?

 

Copyright 2015 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.