The Marginalian

How to Find Your Purpose and Do What You Love

By maria popova.

the importance of doing what you love essay

1. PAUL GRAHAM ON HOW TO DO WHAT YOU LOVE

Every few months, I rediscover and redevour Y-Combinator founder Paul Graham’ s fantastic 2006 article, How to Do What You Love . It’s brilliant in its entirety, but the part I find of especial importance and urgency is his meditation on social validation and the false merit metric of “prestige”:

What you should not do, I think, is worry about the opinion of anyone beyond your friends. You shouldn’t worry about prestige. Prestige is the opinion of the rest of the world. […] Prestige is like a powerful magnet that warps even your beliefs about what you enjoy. It causes you to work not on what you like, but what you’d like to like. […] Prestige is just fossilized inspiration. If you do anything well enough, you’ll make it prestigious. Plenty of things we now consider prestigious were anything but at first. Jazz comes to mind—though almost any established art form would do. So just do what you like, and let prestige take care of itself. Prestige is especially dangerous to the ambitious. If you want to make ambitious people waste their time on errands, the way to do it is to bait the hook with prestige. That’s the recipe for getting people to give talks, write forewords, serve on committees, be department heads, and so on. It might be a good rule simply to avoid any prestigious task. If it didn’t suck, they wouldn’t have had to make it prestigious.

More of Graham’s wisdom on how to find meaning and make wealth can be found in Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas from the Computer Age .

2. ALAIN DE BOTTON ON SUCCESS

the importance of doing what you love essay

In The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work , he takes his singular lens of wit and wisdom to the modern workplace and the ideological fallacies of “success.”

His terrific 2009 TED talk offers a taste:

One of the interesting things about success is that we think we know what it means. A lot of the time our ideas about what it would mean to live successfully are not our own. They’re sucked in from other people. And we also suck in messages from everything from the television to advertising to marketing, etcetera. These are hugely powerful forces that define what we want and how we view ourselves. What I want to argue for is not that we should give up on our ideas of success, but that we should make sure that they are our own. We should focus in on our ideas and make sure that we own them, that we’re truly the authors of our own ambitions. Because it’s bad enough not getting what you want, but it’s even worse to have an idea of what it is you want and find out at the end of the journey that it isn’t, in fact, what you wanted all along.

3. HUGH MACLEOD ON SETTING BOUNDARIES

the importance of doing what you love essay

16. The most important thing a creative per­son can learn professionally is where to draw the red line that separates what you are willing to do, and what you are not. Art suffers the moment other people start paying for it. The more you need the money, the more people will tell you what to do. The less control you will have. The more bullshit you will have to swallow. The less joy it will bring. Know this and plan accordingly.

Later, MacLeod echoes Graham’s point about prestige above :

28. The best way to get approval is not to need it. This is equally true in art and business. And love. And sex. And just about everything else worth having.”

4. LEWIS HYDE ON WORK VS. LABOR

the importance of doing what you love essay

In this excerpt, originally featured here in January , Hyde articulates the essential difference between work and creative labor, understanding which takes us a little closer to the holy grail of vocational fulfillment:

Work is what we do by the hour. It begins and, if possible, we do it for money. Welding car bodies on an assembly line is work; washing dishes, computing taxes, walking the rounds in a psychiatric ward, picking asparagus — these are work. Labor, on the other hand, sets its own pace. We may get paid for it, but it’s harder to quantify… Writing a poem, raising a child, developing a new calculus, resolving a neurosis, invention in all forms — these are labors. Work is an intended activity that is accomplished through the will. A labor can be intended but only to the extent of doing the groundwork, or of not doing things that would clearly prevent the labor. Beyond that, labor has its own schedule. … There is no technology, no time-saving device that can alter the rhythms of creative labor. When the worth of labor is expressed in terms of exchange value, therefore, creativity is automatically devalued every time there is an advance in the technology of work.

Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi has a term for the quality that sets labor apart from work: flow — a kind of intense focus and crisp sense of clarity where you forget yourself, lose track of time, and feel like you’re part of something larger. If you’ve ever pulled an all-nighter for a pet project, or even spent 20 consecutive hours composing a love letter, you’ve experienced flow and you know creative labor.

5. STEVE JOBS ON NOT SETTLING

In his now-legendary 2005 Stanford commencement address , an absolute treasure in its entirety, Steve Jobs makes an eloquent case for not settling in the quest for finding your calling — a case that rests largely on his insistence upon the power of intuition :

the importance of doing what you love essay

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle.

6. ROBERT KRULWICH ON FRIENDS

Robert Krulwich , co-producer of WNYC’s fantastic Radiolab , author of the ever-illuminating Krulwich Wonders and winner of a Peabody Award for broadcast excellence , is one of the finest journalists working today. In another great commencement address , he articulates the infinitely important social aspect of loving what you do — a kind of social connectedness far more meaningful and genuine than those notions of prestige and peer validation.

the importance of doing what you love essay

You will build a body of work, but you will also build a body of affection, with the people you’ve helped who’ve helped you back. This is the era of Friends in Low Places. The ones you meet now, who will notice you, challenge you, work with you, and watch your back. Maybe they will be your strength. … If you can… fall in love, with the work, with people you work with, with your dreams and their dreams. Whatever it was that got you to this school, don’t let it go. Whatever kept you here, don’t let that go. Believe in your friends. Believe that what you and your friends have to say… that the way you’re saying it — is something new in the world.

7. THE HOLSTEE MANIFESTO

You might recall The Holstee Manifesto as one of our 5 favorite manifestos for the creative life , an eloquent and beautifully written love letter to the life of purpose. (So beloved is the manifesto around here that it has earned itself a permanent spot in the Brain Pickings sidebar, a daily reminder to both myself and you, dear reader, of what matters most.)

the importance of doing what you love essay

This is your life. Do what you love, and do it often. If you don’t like something, change it. If you don’t like your job, quit. If you don’t have enough time, stop watching TV. If you are looking for the love of your life, stop; they will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love.

The Holstee Manifesto is now available as a beautiful letterpress print , a 5×7 greeting card printed on handmade paper derived from 50% elephant poo and 50% recycled paper, and even a baby bib — because it’s never too early to instill the values of living from passion.

— Published February 27, 2012 — https://www.themarginalian.org/2012/02/27/purpose-work-love/ —

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Quentin Tarantino and the Importance of Doing What You Love

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This Week’s BIG Idea

I’m almost done with Cinema Speculation , Quentin Tarantino’s second book after his novelization of Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood and I’m loving it so far. While reading the book, I kept thinking about something: how important is it that you do what you love?

Cinema Speculation is hard to describe because it combines elements from different genres into a unique concoction. This is a collection of essays about 1970s cinema where Tarantino talks not only about movies, directors, actors, and critics but also about his personal experience watching those movies as a kid. And let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. His prose is infectious to the point that I want to put the book down and watch the movies he mentions.

Although I’m not a fan of all of his films, something I’ve always loved about Tarantino is that he knows a lot about cinema. He keeps mentioning movies, actors, directors, and books about cinema, and it’s hard to keep up with him. He’s also an opinionated filmmaker, but he always compliments his opinions with strong arguments about why he likes or dislikes a given film. But even when his a connoisseur about all things cinema, he doesn’t look down on his readers. If Tarantino’s next film is in fact his last and he retires as a filmmaker, I hope he keeps working as an author.

So back to my original question: how important is it that you do what you love? I would say, very much so. This is something authors Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles discuss in their book Ikigai . If you’re interested, you can read my summary of the book here . The idea is that some of the oldest people in the world share some common traits: they eat healthy food, they are part of a community, and they have a mission. This mission is what the Japanese call, an Ikigai.

I often come across people like Tarantino, who discuss a topic at length and give you a dizzying number of details about it. These people are energetic and exciting and they draw you in with their sheer passion. They’re excited to be alive because they’ve discovered their Ikigai and they’re clearly spending every waking moment thinking about it. Be one of those people and do what you love.

What I’m Working on

This is somewhat related to the idea of doing what you love too. So I’ve been reorganizing my TBR (to be read) to include more books I read for fun. Although I enjoy reading self-development books regularly and working on summaries, I don’t want to lose sight of what reading means for me. It isn’t about being productive and learning all the time. It’s also about discovering stories that take me to new places or let me revisit old ones too. It’s about learning for the sake of learning.

If we’re not careful, productivity can become toxic. Not everything you do should be a side hustle or something you do with a specific goal in mind. You’re allowed to have fun from time to time. It’s so easy to forget this in a hypercompetitive world where everyone’s busy and proud of it. This is a personal reminder to never lose sight of the small things. Those are usually the ones that bring you the most joy.

What I’m Listening to

I have no idea if this works or not, but I’ve been trying to listen to white noise while writing. I’ve worked using coffee house noises and nature sounds. I find that white background noises help me concentrate and can get into deep work faster. Again, I don’t know the science behind this or if there are some proven benefits to doing it. But listening to white noise makes me more productive and invested in what I’m doing.

What I’m Reading

  • Cinema Speculation by Quentin Tarantino : I talk about this at length in the opening paragraph of this article where I related Tarantino’s latest book to doing what you love, but here are some short comments about the book anyway. I really enjoyed Tarantino’s previous book, the novelization of his magnum opus, Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood . Cinema Speculation is a collection of essays where the renowned filmmaker talks about some of his favorite films of the 1970s. I’ve always been fascinated by Tarantino’s deep knowledge of cinema and infectious opinions. His personality shines through and even when I haven’t watched half of the movie he discusses in the book, his writing is so energetic and his essays so insightful that I want to put the book down only to watch the films mentioned.
  • I Will Teach You to be Rich by Ramil Sethi : I haven’t read that many personal finance books, but the few I have, have been transformative. Among other things, I Will Teach You to Be Rich has lessons to get rid of debt, set up bank accounts, automate your finances, and simple investment strategies. As usual, I’m including a link to the book above, make sure you get the updated version because it features over 80 new pages of updated content.

What I’m Watching

In this short video, content creator Nathaniel Drew talks about how to implement minimalism in our digital life. The idea is to use a simple file structure to organize files in our computers and never lose anything important. This allows us to be more focused and productive. Drew explains the simple setup he uses to organize files in his Google Drive and on his computer. The reason I’m so attracted to systems like this one is because they work and they’re extremely simple to implement. It may take some time to organize everything the first time you do it, but once the system is up and running, you barely have to do anything.

This Week’s Quote

“I am convinced that life is 10% what happens and 90% how I react to it.” Neil Pasricha – The Happiness Equation

You can subscribe to my newsletter on Substack here or using the form below.

LifeHack

Life Potential

How to do what you love and love what you do to achieve more.

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Are you waking up each day looking for that perfect thing, activity, or job that will make your life work? Or, maybe you are looking for that perfect relationship. Once you “get” this new thing that will allow you to do what you love, you are sure that you will be happy forever.

In reality, life doesn’t work like that, and we would probably get bored if it did. There is likely no one thing, experience, or activity that will keep you feeling passionate and engaged all the time. What’s important is staying connected to what you love and continuing to grow in the process.

Here, we’ll talk about how to get started doing what you love and achieving more in life through the motivation it brings. Doing this doesn’t have to take a long time; it just takes determination and energy.

Table of Contents

Why doing what you love is important, reasons to do what you love.

  • Start Doing What You're Passionate About

No Activity Is Exciting All the Time

Doing what you love may not be easy, is “doing what you love” a myth, how to do what you love, final thoughts, more on how to do what you love.

Steve Jobs stood in front of the Stanford graduating class of 2005 and said an incredible phrase:

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

There is the truth behind this when we consider how happiness and positivity affect us during growth. When you work a job that you love, you’ll find that overall productivity is boosted and it enhances your performance.

You’ll feel a deeper sense of purpose, be more optimistic, motivated, learn faster, and less likely to be making mistakes.

When you don’t love being where you are, the exact opposite will happen: you’ll feel disconnected, pessimistic, and make more mistakes. You’ll feel indifferent and not care as much. You don’t feel good about it.

Those negative aspects will only hinder your growth long term.

Aside from mental health, doing what you love will affect your physical appearance also. You’ll “feel” life in a way that you never imagine. These are just a few key reasons to work a job that you love:

  • You’ll get a deeper feeling of fulfillment. A job shouldn’t just be a source of income or something that you try to balance with a work life balance. Your career should make you feel good and provide other support in other areas.
  • You’ll inspire others. Many people don’t follow their dreams because they face reality and give up. Even if the rationale is reasonable, these are your dreams and life goals. When you’re working on something you’re passionate about, you’re more likely to be optimistic and pursue those things even though there could be challenges. That rubs off on other people.
  • You’ll have better odds of succeeding. When you work a job that you love, you’ll feel good when you work a day. Even if a day in your life is filled with trials, challenges, and complications. These are signs that you are pushing yourself and you’ll succeed more.
“Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it.” — Buddha

Start Doing What You’re Passionate About

So many people walk around in life “looking for” their passion . They look for it as if true passion is some mysterious thing that is difficult to find and runs away once you find it. However, the problem is rarely a lack of passion.

Most of us already know what we love to do. We know what excites us, even if we haven’t done it for years. Instead, we focus on what we think we “must” do.

For example, maybe you love building model cars or painting pet portraits. Yet, each day you work a completely unrelated job and make no time for the activity you already know you love. The truth is you probably don’t need to find your passion; you just need to start doing what you already know you’re passionate about [1] .

Do You Always Have To Love What You Do?

Despite all of these positive points that were made, it sounds like doing what you love is the only way for you to be living your life and succeeding. And the reality is that’s wrong.

When it comes to our work, the best way to be looking at passion is to look at what Psychology Today contributor Allison E McWilliams Ph.D. wrote on passion. She described it in three key work orientations: [2]

  • Job orientation – work is a means to an end, allowing you to pursue other things in life.
  • Career orientation – care about work that allows the person to get promoted.
  • Calling orientation – the work you do creates your identity. Your meaning.

The advice of following your passion or doing what you love leans more towards the calling orientation. And while it’s a higher purpose, it might not be something you really want in life.

There are no wrong answers in the orientation that you have out of those three as the work that you do can lead to you doing what you want in life.

For example, even if you’re working in a place that you don’t love, the people you’ve met provide fulfillment. Or perhaps the income that you make from it allows you to support your family, take them on vacations, and lets you indulge in a hobby you love.

Even people who are living their dream lifestyle or working their dream job don’t love it all the time. Every job or lifestyle has parts of it that we won’t like.

Let’s say your dream is to become an actress, and you succeed. You may not enjoy the process of auditioning and facing rejection. You may experience moments of boredom when you practice your lines over and over again. But the overall experience is totally worth it.

Most of life is like that. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by demanding that life be perfect all the time. If things were perfect and easy, you would ultimately stop learning and growing, and life would begin to lack even more meaning in that case.

Be grateful for both the good and bad moments as they are both entirely necessary if you genuinely want to do what you love and love what you do.

Along the same lines, not every passion or activity needs to evolve into something grander like a career. Another aspect of passions is that we have several of them. Some are worth it to pursue as a career but others are best left where they are. Those opinions are based on who you are and what is something you’d like to pursue.

Living a life you love is unlikely to be easy. If it was, you would not grow very much as a person . And, if you think about a great book or movie, the growth of the main character is what matters most.

What if the challenges you meet along your path to living a life you love were designed to make you grow as a person? You may actually start looking forward to challenges instead of dreading them. An easy life hardly ever makes a compelling story.

If you struggle to overcome challenges, try writing them down each time you encounter one. Then, write down three ways you could tackle it. Try one, and if it doesn’t work, try another. This way, you’ll learn what does and doesn’t work for you.

“Follow your heart. Do what you love. Because I was constantly struggling with that. If it’s in your heart, go for it. Don’t listen to other people.” — Maz Jobrani

Some other things to consider in overcoming challenges and finding your passion are:

Dive into Your Skillset

Identify what you are good at and what skills you have that you consider are good. Once identified, look to expand those areas. For example, say you are very good around the kitchen and you have a few key dishes you make. How about expanding that to other dishes or picking up new spices?

Apply Some Tests

Namely the passion test and experience test. Developed by Cal Newport in his book So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Search for Work You Love , these tests narrow things down and make things realistic. For the passion test, it’s about identifying a skill but then asking if someone would pay you to do it. For the experience test, you want to determine how much experience you have and how much you are willing to spend learning and growing in that area.

Be Practical, Not Only Passionate

The tests point reinforces that passion is not going to fill your belly or keep the lights on. It’s important to be optimistic and passionate, but also practical too. Sometimes it’s better to pursue something that pays you well than to do what you love and feel good about it in that way.

Yes and no. There is a lot of mysticism behind the practice as people will encourage the idea and stress that it’s the only way to truly live and enjoy a life of purpose.

However, the reality is that’s not the case. It’s a myth that pursuing something that you love will guarantee your life will be filled with money, security, and a happy ending.

At the same time, taking that saying with a more practical approach – as outlined below – does have its merits.

There are many small steps you can take to ensure you are making time to do the things you love. Start with these, and you’ll likely find that you’re already on the right track.

“Don’t aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.” David Frost

1. Choose Your Priorities Wisely

Many people claim they want to do something, yet they don’t do it. The truth is they might not really want to do it in the first place [3] .

We all end up following through on what matters most to us. We make decisions moment by moment about what we need to focus on. What we choose to do is what we deem most important in our lives.

If there is something you claim you want to do but you don’t do it, try asking yourself how much you really want it or where it’s currently placed on priority list. Are there other things you want more?

Be honest with yourself: what you currently do each day is a reflection of your priorities. Recognize that you can change your priorities at any time.

Make a list of your priorities . Really take the time to think this through. Then, ask yourself if what you are doing each day reflects them. For example, if you believe your top priority is spending more time with your family, but you consistently take on extra hours at work, you’re not really prioritizing things in the way you think you are.

If this is happening, it’s time to make a change.

2. Do One Small Thing Each Day

As stated above, doing what you love doesn’t have to mean finding that perfect job that makes you want to jump out of bed in the morning. If you want to do what you love, start with one small thing each day.

Maybe you love reading a good book. Take ten minutes before bed to read.

Maybe you love swimming. Get a membership at the local YMCA, and go there for thirty minutes after work each day.

Dedicating even a short amount of time to something that brings you joy each day will improve your life overall. You may find that, over time, a career path related to what you love to do pops up. After doing the thing you love each day, you’ll be more than prepared to take it on when the opportunity arises.

If you need help making time for your passions, check out this article to get started.

3. Prepare to Make Sacrifices

If you are an exceptionally busy person (aren’t we all?), you may have to make sacrifices in order to make space for the things you are passionate about. Maybe you take on less extra hours at the office or take thirty minutes away from another hobby in order to develop another that you enjoy.

Looking at your priority list will help you decide what can get put on the back burner and what can’t. Remember, do this thinking about what will help you feel good about how you’re spending your time.

For example, if you love writing but rarely make time for it, consider getting up 30 minutes earlier than normal. Or instead of browsing your phone for 30 minutes before bed, you can write instead. There is always a way to find time for what you love.

If you love what you do, each day becomes a joyful adventure. If you don’t love what you are doing, life feels like a chore. The best way to achieve success is to design a life you love and live it every day.

Remember, doing something you love doesn’t have to include big gestures or time-consuming projects. Start small and grow from there.

  • 7 Essential Steps to Start Making a Living Doing What You Love (Finally!)
  • How to Do What You Love Successfully
  • 7 Ways You Can Make Time For Your Passion

Featured photo credit: William Recinos via unsplash.com

[1]^Mark Manson:
[2]^Psychology “
[3]^The Mission:

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Life’s Too Short: 4 Reasons to Do What You Love for a Living

Money isn’t everything if you’re doing what you love for a living.

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You’ve heard the cliche that life is too short. You don’t know what tomorrow brings or where you’ll end up. So why waste your time in a career that doesn’t make you happy?

Studies have shown that happy people tend to earn higher salaries, and it stands to reason that these high earners are content – at least in part – because they have jobs they love.

Reasons to do what you love

Enjoying your career should be a priority over earning a high salary or flashy title, but that may not have been the case when you first considered what you wanted to do for a career . Here are four reasons to quit the job you’re unhappy with, along with four questions that can help you determine your next steps to finding a career you love.

1. You’ll feel more fulfilled.

graphic of a person imagining pouring a watering can over their head

Your job shouldn’t just be a source of income. If you don’t enjoy what you do, you’ll end up missing out on your life.

“As the lines between working life and personal life blur, a job is as much about personal fulfillment and growth as it is about a paycheck,” said Philip Ryan, managing partner at Ipsos Strategy3. “People don’t want to make widgets; they want to change lives, including their own.”

Your career should make you feel good emotionally, both in and out of the office.

“A job that you love … gives you extra motivation to meet your goals, and when you do, the sense of accomplishment is outstanding,” said Masanari Arai, co-founder and CEO of Kii Corporation.

You will carry and radiate that success wherever you go, helping you in other aspects of your life.

2. You’ll be more productive.

graphic of a person sitting in front of a large clock and gears

It’s important to feel motivated and inspired in your career. Without the drive to excel, your performance will lack passion and, in turn, your work may suffer. Productivity allows you to become more efficient, which makes room for downtime and encourages work-life balance.

“If you are passionate about your job, you are likely to take an active interest in learning every aspect of the business,” said Patrice Rice, CEO and founder of Patrice & Associates. “This not only sets you on the path toward success, [but] it also helps you get through the daily grind.”

3. You’ll inspire others.

graphic of businesspeople shaking hands

Many people are too afraid to follow their dreams and do what they love. Think about what you would say to a friend or loved one. Would you discourage them from doing what makes them happy simply because it’s risky? When you take that leap yourself, you become an inspiration to others.

“As a mom who works, it is so important to me to be a role model for my young daughters,” said Keli Coughlin, executive director of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund. “While there might be busy weeks that require more time at the office, my girls know that I love my job, that it’s meaningful to me and that I am proud of the work. It is my hope that, as my girls grow up, they are inspired to find a career that fulfills them and they are passionate about.”

4. You’ll succeed.

graphic of a person planting a flag on a mountain summit

Michael Phillips, founder and CEO of Coconut’s Fish Cafe, said that when you enjoy your job, it doesn’t feel like work. “It makes it easier to get through the trials and tribulations of business ownership,” he added.

You won’t need someone to keep tabs on your work or motivate you to reach your full potential. You will do your best work because it’s natural and exciting.

“When you love what you do, you are compelled to push against yourself,” said Amir Zonozi, co-founder and president of Zoomph. “You want to be where you are challenging yourself and you are competing with yourself in achieving your vision.”

Questions to ask yourself before a career change

It’s one thing to know that you don’t love what you’re currently doing; it’s another to decide what you want to do next. To help you navigate your career path , consider exploring these methods to find a job you love.

1. What did you want to be as a child?

While it might seem strange to go back to your childhood dreams, they might not be far off from what you would be happy doing. Sure, not everyone can be an astronaut, but whatever that original goal might have been, the desire to pursue that career likely came from somewhere.

Think back to that dream job. Even if you no longer want it, the past goal could help you figure out what drives you. For example, those who wanted to work in law enforcement might be driven by justice or helping people. If you wanted to be a teacher, maybe you liked school or working with children. Tailor your motivators and your strengths to find that perfect position.

2. What would your friends or family say are your strengths?

graphic of a person sitting at a laptop with a heart icon about their head

Sometimes, talking to the people closest to you can help you make more informed decisions, as they see parts of you that you may overlook. Ask your loved ones what they think are your strengths, and consider what job would allow you to use those skills. You gain a different perspective when you get others’ opinions. What you consider your strengths may differ from your family and friends’ perceptions.

3. Who was your biggest role model growing up?

Similar to talking about your dream job as a child, you might think about whom you idolized while growing up. Did you love this person because they helped people? Did they have special skills that you desired? Did you find similarities between their abilities and your own? By thinking about why you looked up to this person, you might find a job that would suit you. Even if you did not consider it as a child, meditating on it now might help uncover your true goals and desires. [Read related article: 10 Ways to Become a Better Leader ]

4. What do you truly dislike doing?

It’s just as important to know your weaknesses as it is to recognize your strengths. Understanding what you dread doing can help shape your career path. If you don’t take this into account, you may find yourself back at square one and looking for another new career down the road. For example, if you hate working with spreadsheets, a career dealing with extensive amounts of data may not be right for you.

Follow your passion to build success

While you need a clear plan to monetize your interests, following your passion is a great way to stay fulfilled and motivated in your career. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a professional, pursuing the things you care about can make your time at work more rewarding and help you achieve success more readily. After all, life is short, so why not do what you love?

Tejas Vemparala and Nicole Fallon contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.

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Reason and Meaning

Philosophical reflections on life, death, and the meaning of life, should you “do what you love”.

the importance of doing what you love essay

Steve Jobs , in his 2005 commencement speech at Stanford, argued that we should do the work we love. Here is an excerpt expressing his main idea:

You’ve got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle…

In the past few days, I have encountered four separate articles concerning the question of whether one should (only) do the work they love. Each piece had Jobs’ claims in mind.

In “ A Life Beyond Do What You Love ,” philosophy professor Gordon Marino argues that doing what we don’t want to do—doing our duty—is more noble and ethical than just doing what we love. He doesn’t take kindly to the physician who quit his practice to skateboard all day. In, “ In the Name of Love ,”  the historian Miya Tokumitsu says that the “do what you love” ethos is elitist and degrades work not done from personal passion. It neglects that work may develop our talents, be part of our duty, or be necessary for our survival. The socio-economic elite advances the ‘do what you love ‘view, forgetting their lives depend on others doing supposedly less meaningful work. In, “ Never Settle is a Brag ,”  the economist and futurist Robin Hanson critiques Jobs’ advice that we shouldn’t settle for unfulfilling work. If everyone followed Jobs’ counsel a lot of needed work would go undone. Note too that the advice works best for the talented, so by advising others to not settle for anything less than work they love, you signal your status. You are bragging. Finally, in “ Is Do What You Love Elitist? ” philosophical blogger  Mark Linsenmayer recognizes the flaws in Jobs’ prescriptions but finds in them an obvious truth too—the good life requires that we not be wage slaves in a market economic system. Thus we should change the system so that work can be more satisfying.  

I agree with Marino that doing our duty, even if it doesn’t make us happy, is admirable. And I agree with Tokumitsu and Hanson that elitists, who often do the most interesting work, fail to value more mundane work. But I think that Linsenmayer makes the most important point. We need a new economic system—one where we can develop our talents and actualize our potential. Most of us are too good for the work we do, not because we are better than others, but because the work available in our current system is not good enough for any of us—it is often not satisfying. (I have written about this previously .) As Marx wrote almost two hundred years ago, most of us are alienated from the work we do, and thus ultimately alienated from ourselves and other people too.

Still, we do not live in an ideal world. So what practical counsel do we give people, in our current time and place, regarding work? Unfortunately, my advice is dull and unremarkable, like so much of the available work. For now, the best recommendation is something like: do the least objectionable/most satisfying work available given your options. That we can’t say more reveals the gap between the real and the ideal, which is itself symptomatic of a flawed society. Perhaps working to change the world so that people can engage in satisfying work is the most meaningful work of all.

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4 thoughts on “ should you “do what you love” ”.

I would say that typical proverb: “Don’t do what you love, love what you do.” It’s just about always being happy inside, adapting to the circumstances around us. I think there lies true happiness.

Beautiful post

You are right that much of the answer is in being content. Studies of happiness–which have been addressed on this post–point out that what you say is in large part correct. Thanks for the comment and there are more posts on love forthcoming.

almost all of us are too good for the work we do.

I appreciate your comments Savannah.

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The Power of Love

Love is the best antidepressant—but many of our ideas about it are wrong. the less love you have, the more depressed you are likely to feel..

By Ellen McGrath published December 1, 2002 - last reviewed on June 9, 2016

Love is as critical for your mind and body as oxygen. It's not negotiable. The more connected you are, the healthier you will be both physically and emotionally. The less connected you are, the more you are at risk.

It is also true that the less love you have, the more depression you are likely to experience in your life. Love is probably the best antidepressant there is because one of the most common sources of depression is feeling unloved. Most depressed people don't love themselves and they do not feel loved by others. They also are very self-focused, making them less attractive to others and depriving them of opportunities to learn the skills of love.

There is a mythology in our culture that love just happens. As a result, the depressed often sit around passively waiting for someone to love them. But love doesn't work that way. To get love and keep love you have to go out and be active and learn a variety of specific skills.

Most of us get our ideas of love from popular culture. We come to believe that love is something that sweeps us off our feet. But the pop-culture ideal of love consists of unrealistic images created for entertainment, which is one reason so many of us are set up to be depressed. It's part of our national vulnerability, like eating junk food, constantly stimulated by images of instant gratification. We think it is love when it's simply distraction and infatuation.

One consequence is that when we hit real love we become upset and disappointed because there are many things that do not fit the cultural ideal. Some of us get demanding and controlling, wanting someone else to do what we think our ideal of romance should be, without realizing our ideal is misplaced.

It is not only possible but necessary to change one's approach to love to ward off depression. Follow these action strategies to get more of what you want out of life—to love and be loved.

  • Recognize the difference between limerance and love. Limerance is the psychological state of deep infatuation. It feels good but rarely lasts. Limerance is that first stage of mad attraction whereby all the hormones are flowing and things feel so right. Limerance lasts, on average, six months. It can progress to love. Love mostly starts out as limerance, but limerance doesn't always evolve into love.
  • Know that love is a learned skill, not something that comes from hormones or emotion particularly. Erich Fromm called it "an act of will." If you don't learn the skills of love you virtually guarantee that you will be depressed, not only because you will not be connected enough but because you will have many failure experiences.
  • Learn good communication skills. They are a means by which you develop trust and intensify connection. The more you can communicate the less depressed you will be because you will feel known and understood.

There are always core differences between two people, no matter how good or close you are, and if the relationship is going right those differences surface. The issue then is to identify the differences and negotiate them so that they don't distance you or kill the relationship.

You do that by understanding where the other person is coming from, who that person is, and by being able to represent yourself. When the differences are known you must be able to negotiate and compromise on them until you find a common ground that works for both.

  • Focus on the other person. Rather than focus on what you are getting and how you are being treated, read your partner's need. What does this person really need for his/her own well-being? This is a very tough skill for people to learn in our narcissistic culture. Of course, you don't lose yourself in the process; you make sure you're also doing enough self-care.
  • Help someone else. Depression keeps people so focused on themselves they don't get outside themselves enough to be able to learn to love. The more you can focus on others and learn to respond and meet their needs, the better you are going to do in love.
  • Develop the ability to accommodate simultaneous reality. The loved one's reality is as important as your own, and you need to be as aware of it as of your own. What are they really saying, what are they really needing? Depressed people think the only reality is their own depressed reality.
  • Actively dispute your internal messages of inadequacy. Sensitivity to rejection is a cardinal feature of depression. As a consequence of low self-esteem , every relationship blip is interpreted far too personally as evidence of inadequacy. Quick to feel rejected by a partner, you then believe it is the treatment you fundamentally deserve. But the rejection really originates in you, and the feelings of inadequacy are the depression speaking.

Recognize that the internal voice is strong but it's not real. Talk back to it. "I'm not really being rejected, this isn't really evidence of inadequacy. I made a mistake." Or "this isn't about me, this is something I just didn't know how to do and now I'll learn." When you reframe the situation to something more adequate, you can act again in an effective way and you can find and keep the love that you need.

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The Importance of Doing What You Love

Posted April 17th, 2019 By Kris Powers

Satisfied looking business professional

We’ve all heard the phrase “If you love your job, you’ll never work another day in your life.” Job satisfaction and career happiness are important – let’s face it, many of us spend a majority of our waking hours working. The following statistics provide a glimpse into the current state of the workplace. 

  • 65% of American workers are satisfied in their jobs, up from 49% in 2011 ( Aflac )
  • 60% of employees report being stressed all or most of the time at work ( Udemy )
  • 38% of workers say their happiness impacts their performance at work ( One4all )
  • 68% of men and 72% of women say work is more than just a means to making a living ( Sharefile )

Working in a career that brings you happiness, and that can provide the needed income to support yourself, is possible and should be a priority. People who do what they love can experience the following benefits :

  • Increased productivity and motivation. If you enjoy what you do, you will feel inspired to push through any difficult times in your career.
  • Increased overall health. Unhappiness and stress can cause headaches, increased blood pressure, mental health issues and more. Enjoying what you do will benefit your health – both physically and psychologically.
  • Increased positivity. Those around you will benefit from your enjoying what you do. Many times, we bring the stress from the outside world into our homes. By loving what you do, you’ll be more apt to bring the joy in; and leave negativity out. You will have more energy for your family, friends and outside interests.
  • Increased success. We all like working with someone who enjoys their job. Having a can-do attitude and the energy to do your best will impress both customers and colleagues alike.
  • Increased self-esteem. Happiness extends into every aspect of our life. If you feel good about yourself, you will project yourself confidently and seek out opportunities for growth. Doing what you love can provide you with a sense of purpose, which can be positively shown in your attitude.

Will we all love our jobs every day? No. No matter what career you choose, there will always be tasks that you don’t enjoy, deadlines and difficult days. But finding a career that brings personal happiness, that fills you with hope, motivation and energy is possible. We all should enjoy the way that we spend our days, so why not explore a career in a field that you love?

Ed4Career offers online career training programs in a variety of industries. Our courses can lead to certification in specific fields, giving you a leg up on the competition. Contact us today to learn how you can take that first step towards a career you will love!

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The organic route: as you become more eminent, gradually to increase the parts of your job that you like at the expense of those you don't. The two-job route: to work at things you don't like to get money to work on things you do.














By Doing What You Love, Success Will Follow

By Doing What You Love, Success Will Follow

“Doing what you love is the cornerstone of having abundance in your life.” ~ Wayne Dyer

I always say to people: do what you love, follow your bliss, listen to your heart and intuition, and know that by doing so, success will have no choice but to follow you wherever you go.

I promised that I will write a post on how to do what you love and still be able to pay your bills, and I will like to share with you all, some things that I have learned over the years from great teachers, people like Emerson , Henry David Thoreau , Lao Tzu , Rumi , Dale Carnegie , Wayne Dyer, and many, many others.

Doing what you love

But the same goes for you and all people.

That’s how we achieve happiness, balance, and harmony in all areas of our lives.

As I was writing this and as I was listening down these great teachers, all of these quotes started running through my mind, and I want to share with you a few of them, just so you can better understand how important it is to work with your passions, with your unique gifts and talents.

Proof that doing what you love is the cornerstone of having abundance in your life.

“In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don’t try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.” ~ Lao Tzu

If right now, you are in a place where you aren’t exactly doing the things you love, or maybe, you can’t even get a job, you might want to pause for a while and start asking yourself a couple of questions, questions that might help you discover what is it that you really want, why is it that your life is the way it is, where would yooku like to be headed, how does the perfect life looks for you, and many other questions that might help you get back on the right track and start living the life that you really deserve.

These are some things you might consider that maybe you haven’t thought about, or maybe you were too afraid to do it because of the answered you might have got, but if you really want to make your dreams become reality, you will have to face them all.

I am doing what I love, and I love what I do.

I am discovering new and great talents every day, talents I didn’t even know I have…

~love, Luminita 💫

Luminita D. Saviuc

Luminita is the Founder and Editor in Chief of PurposeFairy.com and also the author of 15 Things You Should Give Up to Be Happy: An Inspiring Guide to Discovering Effortless Joy . For more details check out the 15 Things You Should Give Up To Be Happy Book Page.

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The Importance Of Doing What You Love

My first semester of college was like a gigantic slap in the face. I was a pre-medicine major with the intent of pursuing a career as a forensic psychiatrist; it was something I had wanted to do for years. I walked into all of my classes on my first day with the utmost confidence that I was on track to doing exactly what I wanted to do with my life. However, the more I sat in my biology and chemistry classes, completely uninterested in the subject matter (and failing miserably), doubt crept in.

Being the naive college freshman that I was, the imperative idea of being in love with the classes that serve as the stepping stones to your career was unbeknownst to me. I was fixated on my main goal of becoming a psychiatrist, but I despised the path I knew I'd need to take to get there. I thought I wanted to be a forensic psychiatrist, but my heart was inevitably somewhere else.

Meanwhile, I thrived in every English class I took. I'd drag my feet walking to chemistry, and wanted to skip on my way to English. Assigned readings weren't even like homework to me. Reading was my escape. Writing an essay? No problem. I couldn't wait to write. I realized exactly where I belonged. I made the switch as soon as I could.

I have always loved to read. Some of my fondest memories are riddled with my parents reading to me as a child. As soon as I could read on my own, I always had a book in my hand. Throughout my years in elementary and high school, I knew I had a knack for the written word, but I never once considered making it a career. My love for reading and writing was merely just a pastime, not something I ever thought to make a career out of. Reading and writing were fun to me. Work is just work.

I am often asked what I plan to do with my English degree. While this question bothers me at times, I am always confident in my answer. "I plan to write," I say. What I really mean to say is that I'll be doing what I love. I cannot stress that enough. Do what you love. Find your passion and immerse yourself in it. Do what you love, and do it well. Let no one discourage you from pursuing something you love. The possibilities are endless. If you choose a career that you love and are passionate about, then it isn't work.

I've been an English major for three semesters now, and the contentment I feel in my choice when I go to bed each night is something that I thank God for daily. I found my passion and immersed myself in it. By doing that, I discovered traits about myself that would have otherwise been uncharted territory. I am happy. Do what you love, and do it well.

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25 beatles lyrics: your go-to guide for every situation, the best lines from the fab four.

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make

The End- Abbey Road, 1969

The sun is up, the sky is blue, it's beautiful and so are you

Dear Prudence- The White Album, 1968

Love is old, love is new, love is all, love is you

Because- Abbey Road, 1969

There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be

All You Need Is Love, 1967

Life is very short, and there's no time for fussing and fighting, my friend

We Can Work It Out- Rubber Soul, 1965

He say, "I know you, you know me", One thing I can tell you is you got to be free

Come Together- Abbey Road, 1969

Oh please, say to me, You'll let me be your man. And please say to me, You'll let me hold your hand

I Wanna Hold Your Hand- Meet The Beatles!, 1964

It was twenty years ago today, Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play. They've been going in and out of style, but they're guaranteed to raise a smile

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-1967

Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see

Strawberry Fields Forever- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Can you hear me? When it rains and shine, it's just a state of mind

Rain- Paperback Writer "B" side, 1966

Little darling, it's been long cold lonely winter. Little darling, it feels like years since it' s been here. Here comes the sun, Here comes the sun, and I say it's alright

Here Comes The Sun- Abbey Road, 1969

We danced through the night and we held each other tight, and before too long I fell in love with her. Now, I'll never dance with another when I saw her standing there

Saw Her Standing There- Please Please Me, 1963

I love you, I love you, I love you, that's all I want to say

Michelle- Rubber Soul, 1965

You say you want a revolution. Well you know, we all want to change the world

Revolution- The Beatles, 1968

All the lonely people, where do they all come from. All the lonely people, where do they all belong

Eleanor Rigby- Revolver, 1966

Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends

With A Little Help From My Friends- Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, 1967

Hey Jude, don't make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better

Hey Jude, 1968

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away. Now it looks as though they're here to stay. Oh, I believe in yesterday

Yesterday- Help!, 1965

And when the brokenhearted people, living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.

Let It Be- Let It Be, 1970

And anytime you feel the pain, Hey Jude, refrain. Don't carry the world upon your shoulders

I'll give you all i got to give if you say you'll love me too. i may not have a lot to give but what i got i'll give to you. i don't care too much for money. money can't buy me love.

Can't Buy Me Love- A Hard Day's Night, 1964

All you need is love, love is all you need

All You Need Is Love- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly. all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise.

Blackbird- The White Album, 1968

Though I know I'll never lose affection, for people and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more

In My Life- Rubber Soul, 1965

While these are my 25 favorites, there are quite literally 1000s that could have been included. The Beatles' body of work is massive and there is something for everyone. If you have been living under a rock and haven't discovered the Fab Four, you have to get musically educated. Stream them on Spotify, find them on iTunes or even buy a CD or record (Yes, those still exist!). I would suggest starting with 1, which is a collection of most of their #1 songs, or the 1968 White Album. Give them chance and you'll never look back.

14 Invisible Activities: Unleash Your Inner Ghost!

Obviously the best superpower..

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

1. "Haunt" your friends.

Follow them into their house and cause a ruckus.

2. Sneak into movie theaters.

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Considering that the monthly cost of subscribing to a media-streaming service like Netflix is oft...

Free movies...what else to I have to say?

3. Sneak into the pantry and grab a snack without judgment.

Late night snacks all you want? Duh.

4. Reenact "Hollow Man" and play Kevin Bacon.

America's favorite son? And feel what it's like to be in a MTV Movie Award nominated film? Sign me up.

5. Wear a mask and pretend to be a floating head.

Just another way to spook your friends in case you wanted to.

6. Hold objects so they'll "float."

"Oh no! A floating jar of peanut butter."

7. Win every game of hide-and-seek.

Just stand out in the open and you'll win.

8. Eat some food as people will watch it disappear.

Even everyday activities can be funny.

9. Go around pantsing your friends.

Even pranks can be done; not everything can be good.

10. Not have perfect attendance.

You'll say here, but they won't see you...

11. Avoid anyone you don't want to see.

Whether it's an ex or someone you hate, just use your invisibility to slip out of the situation.

12. Avoid responsibilities.

Chores? Invisible. People asking about social life? Invisible. Family being rude? Boom, invisible.

13. Be an expert on ding-dong-ditch.

Never get caught and have the adrenaline rush? I'm down.

14. Brag about being invisible.

Be the envy of the town.

But don't, I repeat, don't go in a locker room. Don't be a pervert with your power. No one likes a Peeping Tom.

Good luck, folks.

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned..

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

1. The importance of traditions.

Sometimes traditions seem like a silly thing, but the fact of it is that it's part of who you are. You grew up this way and, more than likely, so did your parents. It is something that is part of your family history and that is more important than anything.

2. How to be thankful for family and friends.

No matter how many times they get on your nerves or make you mad, they are the ones who will always be there and you should never take that for granted.

3. How to give back.

When tragedy strikes in a small town, everyone feels obligated to help out because, whether directly or indirectly, it affects you too. It is easy in a bigger city to be able to disconnect from certain problems. But in a small town those problems affect everyone.

4. What the word "community" really means.

Along the same lines as #3, everyone is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand when you need one in a small town and to me that is the true meaning of community. It's working together to build a better atmosphere, being there to raise each other up, build each other up, and pick each other up when someone is in need. A small town community is full of endless support whether it be after a tragedy or at a hometown sports game. Everyone shows up to show their support.

5. That it isn't about the destination, but the journey.

People say this to others all the time, but it takes on a whole new meaning in a small town. It is true that life is about the journey, but when you're from a small town, you know it's about the journey because the journey probably takes longer than you spend at the destination. Everything is so far away that it is totally normal to spend a couple hours in the car on your way to some form of entertainment. And most of the time, you're gonna have as many, if not more, memories and laughs on the journey than at the destination.

6. The consequences of making bad choices.

Word travels fast in a small town, so don't think you're gonna get away with anything. In fact, your parents probably know what you did before you even have a chance to get home and tell them. And forget about being scared of what your teacher, principle, or other authority figure is going to do, you're more afraid of what your parents are gonna do when you get home.

7. To trust people, until you have a reason not to.

Everyone deserves a chance. Most people don't have ill-intentions and you can't live your life guarding against every one else just because a few people in your life have betrayed your trust.

8. To be welcoming and accepting of everyone.

While small towns are not always extremely diverse, they do contain people with a lot of different stories, struggle, and backgrounds. In a small town, it is pretty hard to exclude anyone because of who they are or what they come from because there aren't many people to choose from. A small town teaches you that just because someone isn't the same as you, doesn't mean you can't be great friends.

9. How to be my own, individual person.

In a small town, you learn that it's okay to be who you are and do your own thing. You learn that confidence isn't how beautiful you are or how much money you have, it's who you are on the inside.

10. How to work for what I want.

Nothing comes easy in life. They always say "gardens don't grow overnight" and if you're from a small town you know this both figuratively and literally. You certainly know gardens don't grow overnight because you've worked in a garden or two. But you also know that to get to the place you want to be in life it takes work and effort. It doesn't just happen because you want it to.

11. How to be great at giving directions.

If you're from a small town, you know that you will probably only meet a handful of people in your life who ACTUALLY know where your town is. And forget about the people who accidentally enter into your town because of google maps. You've gotten really good at giving them directions right back to the interstate.

12. How to be humble .

My small town has definitely taught me how to be humble. It isn't always about you, and anyone who grows up in a small town knows that. Everyone gets their moment in the spotlight, and since there's so few of us, we're probably best friends with everyone so we are as excited when they get their moment of fame as we are when we get ours.

13. To be well-rounded.

Going to a small town high school definitely made me well-rounded. There isn't enough kids in the school to fill up all the clubs and sports teams individually so be ready to be a part of them all.

14. How to be great at conflict resolution.

In a small town, good luck holding a grudge. In a bigger city you can just avoid a person you don't like or who you've had problems with. But not in a small town. You better resolve the issue fast because you're bound to see them at least 5 times a week.

15. The beauty of getting outside and exploring.

One of my favorite things about growing up in a rural area was being able to go outside and go exploring and not have to worry about being in danger. There is nothing more exciting then finding a new place somewhere in town or in the woods and just spending time there enjoying the natural beauty around you.

16. To be prepared for anything.

You never know what may happen. If you get a flat tire, you better know how to change it yourself because you never know if you will be able to get ahold of someone else to come fix it. Mechanics might be too busy , or more than likely you won't even have enough cell service to call one.

17. That you don't always have to do it alone.

It's okay to ask for help. One thing I realized when I moved away from my town for college, was how much my town has taught me that I could ask for help is I needed it. I got into a couple situations outside of my town where I couldn't find anyone to help me and found myself thinking, if I was in my town there would be tons of people ready to help me. And even though I couldn't find anyone to help, you better believe I wasn't afraid to ask.

18. How to be creative.

When you're at least an hour away from normal forms of entertainment such as movie theaters and malls, you learn to get real creative in entertaining yourself. Whether it be a night looking at the stars in the bed of a pickup truck or having a movie marathon in a blanket fort at home, you know how to make your own good time.

19. To brush off gossip.

It's all about knowing the person you are and not letting others influence your opinion of yourself. In small towns, there is plenty of gossip. But as long as you know who you really are, it will always blow over.

Grateful Beyond Words: A Letter to My Inspiration

I have never been so thankful to know you..

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

You have taught me that you don't always have to strong. You are allowed to break down as long as you pick yourself back up and keep moving forward. When life had you at your worst moments, you allowed your friends to be there for you and to help you. You let them in and they helped pick you up. Even in your darkest hour you showed so much strength. I know that you don't believe in yourself as much as you should but you are unbelievably strong and capable of anything you set your mind to.

Your passion to make a difference in the world is unbelievable. You put your heart and soul into your endeavors and surpass any personal goal you could have set. Watching you do what you love and watching you make a difference in the lives of others is an incredible experience. The way your face lights up when you finally realize what you have accomplished is breathtaking and I hope that one day I can have just as much passion you have.

SEE MORE: A Letter To My Best Friend On Her Birthday

The love you have for your family is outstanding. Watching you interact with loved ones just makes me smile . You are so comfortable and you are yourself. I see the way you smile when you are around family and I wish I could see you smile like this everyday. You love with all your heart and this quality is something I wished I possessed.

You inspire me to be the best version of myself. I look up to you. I feel that more people should strive to have the strength and passion that you exemplify in everyday life.You may be stubborn at points but when you really need help you let others in, which shows strength in itself. I have never been more proud to know someone and to call someone my role model. You have taught me so many things and I want to thank you. Thank you for inspiring me in life. Thank you for making me want to be a better person.

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life..

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Don't freak out

This is a rule you should continue to follow no matter what you do in life, but is especially helpful in this situation.

Email the professor

Around this time, professors are getting flooded with requests from students wanting to get into full classes. This doesn't mean you shouldn't burden them with your email; it means they are expecting interested students to email them. Send a short, concise message telling them that you are interested in the class and ask if there would be any chance for you to get in.

Attend the first class

Often, the advice professors will give you when they reply to your email is to attend the first class. The first class isn't the most important class in terms of what will be taught. However, attending the first class means you are serious about taking the course and aren't going to give up on it.

Keep attending class

Every student is in the same position as you are. They registered for more classes than they want to take and are "shopping." For the first couple of weeks, you can drop or add classes as you please, which means that classes that were once full will have spaces. If you keep attending class and keep up with assignments, odds are that you will have priority. Professors give preference to people who need the class for a major and then from higher to lower class year (senior to freshman).

Have a backup plan

For two weeks, or until I find out whether I get into my waitlisted class, I will be attending more than the usual number of classes. This is so that if I don't get into my waitlisted class, I won't have a credit shortage and I won't have to fall back in my backup class. Chances are that enough people will drop the class, especially if it is very difficult like computer science, and you will have a chance. In popular classes like art and psychology, odds are you probably won't get in, so prepare for that.

Remember that everything works out at the end

Life is full of surprises. So what if you didn't get into the class you wanted? Your life obviously has something else in store for you. It's your job to make sure you make the best out of what you have.

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the importance of doing what you love essay

Marc Anthony: 'If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.'

If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.

The quote by Marc Anthony, "If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life," holds a powerful message about the connection between passion and work. In a straightforward manner, this quote suggests that when one engages in work that aligns with their true passions and interests, it ceases to feel like work, but rather becomes a source of joy and fulfillment. This idea emphasizes the importance of pursuing our passions and finding meaning in what we do. However, let us explore an unexpected philosophical concept that adds a unique perspective to this sentiment.In the world of philosophy, the concept of "flow" comes to mind when reflecting upon Anthony's quote. Flow, as defined by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is a state of complete absorption and focus in an activity, where time seems to fly by and our skills meet the challenges at hand. It is a state of being fully present and engaged in the task, experiencing a sense of effortless concentration. The notion of flow aligns with Anthony's quote, suggesting that when we do what we love, we are more likely to enter this state of flow, blurring the lines between work and pleasure.When we pursue our passions and immerse ourselves in activities that resonate with our true desires, we often lose track of time. The mundane concept of "work" fades away, replaced by a sense of purposeful engagement and intrinsic motivation. It is in this state of flow that we find true happiness and a deep sense of fulfillment. Our passions drive us to push beyond limitations, explore new ideas, and create something meaningful, all while enjoying the process.However, it is important to acknowledge that the path to achieving this state of joyous work may not always be straightforward. Pursuing our passions and doing what we love requires introspection, self-awareness, and sometimes even taking risks. Moreover, external factors such as societal expectations, financial constraints, or personal circumstances can sometimes hinder our ability to prioritize our passions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize the importance of making time and finding ways to integrate our passions into our lives, even if it is not in the form of a traditional career or job.While Marc Anthony's quote suggests that doing what we love eradicates the feeling of work, it is essential to find a balance and be realistic. It is possible to pursue our passions while acknowledging that challenges and moments of effort will still arise. The difference lies in the approach towards those challenges. When we are passionate about what we do, we are more inclined to view obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than mere burdens. This mindset allows us to persevere and find joy in the journey, even when faced with difficulties.In conclusion, Marc Anthony's famous quote encapsulates a fundamental truth about the intertwining of passion and work. When we engage in activities aligned with our true passions, what may initially be perceived as work transforms into a joyful and fulfilling experience. The concept of flow further supports this idea, highlighting the state of complete absorption and effortless concentration that arises when we do what we love. By integrating our passions into our lives, we can strive to enter this state of flow, blurring the lines between work and pleasure. Although challenges may still arise, embracing them with a positive mindset allows us to find joy in the journey and continue to pursue our passions with unwavering enthusiasm.

Frank Herbert: 'The beginning of knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand.'

Gilda radner: 'i'd much rather be a woman than a man. women can cry, they can wear cute clothes, and they're the first to be rescued off sinking ships.'.

the importance of doing what you love essay

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The Unexpected Benefits of Pursuing a Passion Outside of Work

  • Jon M. Jachimowicz,
  • Julián Arango

the importance of doing what you love essay

Studies show that it can be better for your engagement — and health.

We are often told to pursue work we’re passionate about. But, for many people, this simply isn’t feasible. Not every job affords the possibility of doing what you love. And people care deeply about many different things—not all of which will be how they want to earn a living. A growing body of research suggests that pursuing your passion does indeed improve well-being, but that where you do it is far less critical. In fact, several studies show that people who find joy in non-professional activities see benefits in both their careers and personal lives.

It seems like we’re constantly told to pursue work that we’re passionate about. At least in the United States, this advice follows people from school and into their careers. As billionaire investor Ray Dalio advises in his book Principles , “ make your passion and your work the same thing .” Doing so is said to be the path to success.

  • Jon M. Jachimowicz is an assistant professor in the Organizational Behavior Unit at the Harvard Business School. He received his PhD in management from Columbia Business School. He studies how people pursue their passion for work, how they perceive passion in others, and how leaders and organizations seek to manage for passion.
  • JH Joyce He is a Ph.D. candidate in organizational hehavior at the Rotman School of Management at University of Toronto. Her research focuses on how people form (often inaccurate) impressions of others, and how these impressions then impact important organization outcomes. She explores these interests through both the lens of gender, and emotions.
  • JA Julián Arango is founder and behavioral strategist at Aleatoria, a behavioral science firm in Colombia. He is also a Research Assistant to prof. Jon Jachimowicz. He is passionate about contributing to private and public organizations by applying behavioral science in Latin America that have the potential to improve performance. He received an MSc in Behavioral and Economic Science from the University of Warwick.

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The path to happiness: do what you love, not what you like.

I spend a lot of time thinking about optimizing my life. Sometimes that’s towards optimizing to achieve some other goal—strengthen my business, get in better shape or have better relationships.

However, the ultimate goal is to be happy and fulfilled, so why not optimize for that more directly?

I think an easy way to optimize that is to follow the advice: Do more of the things you love, and less of the things you like.

More Love, Less Like

Each of us has things we love. These things are both deeply enjoyable, and they fit ourselves into the vision of who we would like to be. When we’re doing them, we feel both fun and joy in the moment, but also feel content with the person we’re aiming to be.

We also have things we just like. These things may offer some momentary pings of joy, but the activity itself doesn’t really make us feel better about ourselves or deeply fulfilled. It’s just something to pass the time.

A route to greater happiness, in both the day-to-day enjoyment and long-term fulfillment with who you are and where you are in life is simple: do more of the things you love, and cut back on the things you merely like.

Fewer Shoulds

There’s lots of things we have to do in life. We need to work to pay the bills. We need to support our friends and families. We need to eat healthy, stay in shape and take care of ourselves.

But there’s an awful lot of things we should do, that we neither like nor love, nor have to, in the strictest sense. Friends say we should follow politics closely or we’re a bad citizen. Society says if you haven’t read Shakespeare you’re a philistine. Parents have lists of shoulds for raising kids that grows longer every day.

Just as you should cut back on the things you like to make room for what you love, you should also cut back on the shoulds. If something isn’t a must, and it doesn’t fill you with excitement, then you might as well abandon the guilt about avoiding it now.

Don’t Feel Guilty About Things You Love

I love people who really love what they do, even if society sometimes raises an eyebrow about it.

I’m fascinated by speed runners . People who obsessively play video games to beat them as fast as possible. Society often deems playing games a low-status hobby. Grown men shouldn’t play so much. Except, the people who do it absolutely love it. I admire these people because they’re willing to work hard at something they love, even if the world around them is sometimes dismissive of it.

When I started blogging, that too had an almost pejorative connotation. “You mean those people who write online diaries?” Ditto with when I started to love personal development and habits. It’s not cool to try too hard.

Loving the things you do is what makes for happiness. More than money, fame or status. It’s also something almost fully under your control. Your health, relationships or career may be tossed around by outside factors, but doing what you love is largely a choice.

This doesn’t mean you can avoid the things you have to do. The things you have to do will take up a lot of your time, sometimes even all of it. Part of the reason to work on becoming more successful is to eliminate things you have to do and replace them with things you love to do, but even the most successful people are never completely free of it.

While you may not be able to excuse the things you have to do, you can definitely make adjustments to the things you merely like or reducing guilt from the things you feel you should do.

Disciplining Yourself to Do What You Love

It takes courage and discipline to do what you love.

Courage, because the shoulds and socially-acceptable activities you merely like, often are the default. The general tone of society isn’t love, but mild irritation, so being someone who does what you love automatically makes you a little weird.

Discipline, because our society is full of addictive behavioral loops that hijack our impulses, without providing deep satisfaction. I love learning new things, painting, programming and spending time with friends. But I’m often watching only mildly interesting YouTube videos, because the app on my phone becomes the perfect variable reinforcement schedule to give me just the right dose of intrigue for the lowest possible effort to keep me engaged.

If you want to do more of what you love, here’s how:

  • Write on a list all the things you love to do. That means you enjoy doing them, but also they give you a deeper satisfaction and meaning.
  • Write also a list of things you might love to do, if you gave them a chance. They might be things that intrigue you, but that you haven’t mastered to a point that would make you feel good consistently while you do them.
  • Write out a list of the things you do regularly, that you merely like (or even dislike!).
  • Step-by-step, seek to eliminate those in #3 and replace them with those in lists #1 or #2. You can do this by changing your habits, putting restrictions on your phone, television or computer to limit usage, or simply by signing up more of your time for what you love so the things you merely like get pushed out.

While this may sound like a strategy for those with the luxury of lots of time, it’s actually the opposite. If your life is filled mostly with things you have to do, then it’s even more important that what little remains is spent doing things you really love, and not wasted on the things that you merely like.

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How Liking Your Job Will Help You Succeed

November 17, 2023

View all blog posts under Articles

How "Liking" Your Job Will Help You Succeed

Steve Jobs stood in front of the 2005 Stanford graduating class and said, “"the only way to do great work is to love what you do," but how does enjoying your work really lead to success in the workplace?

Being happy at work and loving what you do is an overall productivity booster and enhances performance. People who enjoy their jobs are more likely to be optimistic, motivated, learn faster, make fewer mistakes, and better business decisions.

Positivity is Pertinent to Success

According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a distinguished Hungarian psychologist, being able to enjoy your work is the main factor in getting into a state of flow.

Flow: The experience you have when you are “in the zone”. You feel fully focused, creative, and ideas are flowing freely.

This means that every time you are given a task and view it negatively, this mindset is already making it harder for you to complete your work. Doing work you love is energizing and creates a positive feedback loop that fuels productivity. Your passion for the work energizes you and vice versa, giving you more fuel to put towards success. The trick is figuring out how to make yourself love your work - even the most tedious of tasks.

Csikszentmihalyi discovered that once you take on a task with a positive mindset and think of the benefits you can reap from completing this project, your work is more likely to happen in a steady, concentrated flow. Being in this state of mind means you will be highly focused and fully absorbed in the task at hand, just as you would be while doing something you really enjoy. Being able to fully devote yourself to a task and give it your all will make you more productive and knowledgeable, leading you towards success at work.

The ability to complete work you don’t enjoy with enthusiasm is hard enough, let alone being the best at it. Without the passion or drive it just doesn’t come naturally. People are more confident at tasks that are more natural and seem to flow. This pertains to anything from writing emails, speaking to large groups, or even creating a presentation. Use a positive mindset to find your drive and build confidence in yourself. If you feel confident and secure with the work you are producing, you will be able to complete it to your fullest potential. Without this overall positive mindset, confidence is lacking and can lead to second-guessing yourself and becoming inefficient.

Passion not only drives you to enjoy your work, but helps in overcoming obstacles in the workplace as well. Anytime you hit a bump in the road or begin to doubt your abilities, remember the positive effects of the work you are doing. This persistence will lead to quality work that elevates you and brings you that much closer to your next goal. Use that drive and motivation as fuel towards your next checkpoint to success.

Finding Passion for Everyday Tasks

An overall positive and passionate mindset can be difficult to enact while completing tedious assignments. To change the way you think, you must also change the way you work. Find the significance in your efforts, live the vision of your organization, work with your colleagues, and in turn you can encourage positive change and take one step closer to success.

Every company has a mission or vision that they work to achieve. Whether it’s clothing the homeless or creating happy, loyal customers while keeping costs down for the organization, raising your significance by working towards the common goal will keep you on the path towards success. By seeing your part in the big picture and realizing your worth, positivity and passion come naturally.

Along with realizing your own worth, knowing your team’s abilities is just as important. According to Paul A. O’Keefe, assistant professor of psychology at Yale-NUS College in Singapore, working with your colleagues helps foster interest in work and create enthusiasm. In a study conducted by O’Keefe, it was found that those working with a partner reported greater interest in the subject and a stronger desire to master it. In other words, utilize your co-workers for motivation. Brainstorm, collaborate, and discuss to instill interest and drive in your work.

As you become more connected with your workplace and coworkers, begin to encourage positive change around you by asking yourself, “what can I do to improve this?” Immersing yourself in your work will help cultivate a passion for your duties. Add this passion on top of taking personal responsibility for making your company more successful, and your engagement will increase greatly, along with your job satisfaction.

The mindset you choose to take on when working is very important. Be conscious of the benefits you are creating for yourself and think positively. In turn, work will become more enjoyable and easier to master on the road to success.

Understanding human behavior is more than the basis of psychology – it is an essential component of virtually every business and organization. The USC  online aster of Science in Applied Psychology degree  prepares professionals to excel in the fields of consumer and organizational psychology.

Liking Work Really Matters How Loving Your Job Helps You Succeed Having a passion for your work may be overrated as a key to success

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Moving Beyond Passion: Why “Do What You Love” Advice for College Students Needs Reexamination

Supporting the profession assessment, evaluation, and research, august 23, 2019 michael j. stebleton university of minnesota-twin cities, the following blog post is an excerpt from  “moving beyond passion: why ‘do what you love’ advice for college students needs reexamination” originally published in  the journal of college and character,  volume 20, issue 2.

College students receive countless messages about “following passion” and “doing what you love” (DWYL). What happens when these repeated messages ultimately do a disservice to some students? Although pursuing one’s interests is strongly encouraged, the author explores the limitations of the DWYL advice at all costs, including the privilege that is often tied to Western-oriented career development concepts. Rather than focus solely on passion, career-related discusions with students should include authentic conversations about purpose, meaning, and the shifting future of work—and how students might best prepare for these changes. Several examples of institutional programs are highlighted. Suggestions and implications are provided for higher education professionals and student affairs practitioners.

“Find your passion!” “Do what you love—and the money will follow!” We all hear this sage-like advice from parents, teachers, and graduation speakers. Interestingly, these mantras fill the heads of our college students before they even set foot on campus. Yet, I frequently wonder if these well- intended pieces of advice ultimately do a disservice to many students. In this essay, I question whether the Do What You Love (DWYL) advice, albeit well-intended, really meets the complexities of today’s college students and the new realities of work. More importantly, I make the argument that discussions around thriving in the future workplace, with an emphasis on purpose and ongoing skill development, deserve greater attention over benign platitudes about passion (i.e., do what you love). To be clear, college students should pursue major and career options based on their interests and even their callings; however, there are other factors that merit similar attention. As higher education professionals, we need to reexamine how we interact with college students regarding messages about career and work-related decision-making. What happens when the popular notion of finding one’s true passion (i.e., love, or a focus of deep desire) is not viable or simply just poor advice for some students?

Career as Privilege

Students receive countless messages grounded in the DWYL language. Pundits encourage students to “follow their dreams” and “search for passion” until they find it without relenting. Steve Jobs, in his famous 2005 Stanford University commencement address, challenged students to find work they love to do and to never give up on those aspirations (Jobs, 2005; Richardson & Arthur, 2013). Although I agree with Jobs and the DWYL mantra up to a point, I question the underlying assumptions that all students, irrespective of contextual factors (e.g., socioeconomic background, high school experiences, immigrant status), just need to identify passion and work harder to become successful. Offering of career advice for students is not a new phenomenon. Much has been written over the years about career development and career decision-making, and the literature is replete with pieces discussing overlapping ideas of passion, purpose, and meaningful.

For purposes of this essay, I distinguish between passion and purpose. The two terms are related and one of semantics. While the meanings of purpose and passion are not restricted to concrete definitions or understandings, I will refer to passion as it is often voiced by the DWYL proponents. Passion—as used by Jobs and the DWYL advocates—suggests following what you love at all costs, sometimes from an individualistic and privileged orientation; yet, passion can involve committed altruism. Purpose involves pursuing work that provides personal or collective meaning; it also can involve making a difference in the lives of other people. Possessing a strong purpose when engaging in work-related decisions can lead to more satisfying and meaningful lives for college students. From this perspective, purpose and meaning are inter-connected, and I use the terms interchangeably in my conversations with undergraduates. Other scholars continue to explore the nuances and limitations of the messages we receive about career and work.

Art historian Miya Tokumitsu shares some of my concerns about the passion at all costs epistle. In her article, “In the Name of Love,” she wrote that for some people, doing what they love can be self- serving to the point of narcissism. Tokumitsu (2014) argued that the DWYL actually undermines some workers, including the less privileged and workers who may be already marginalized:

One consequence of this isolation is the division that DWYL creates among workers, largely along class lines. Work becomes divided into two opposing classes: that which is lovable (creative, intellectual, socially prestigious) and that which is not (repetitive, unintellectual, undistinguished). Those in the lovable-work camp are vastly more privileged in terms of wealth, social status, education, society’s racial biases, and political clout, while comprising a small minority of the workforce. (Tokumitsu, 2014)

This binary message unfairly perpetuates two choices—you love your work or you do not. Let’s be honest: Even intellectually stimulating work contains repetitive elements. For example, many faculty members (including me) love teaching, yet despise the drudgery of grading papers.

Tokumitsu (2014) skillfully articulates flaws in the DWYL concept and questions its unexamined use as worthy career advice, mainly that the pursuit of a career is a privilege that we often take for granted. Tokumitsu is not alone in this stance. David Blustein, career development scholar, extended this argument in his work on The Psychology of Working (2006). In this oft-cited book, he claimed that the concept of choosing and pursuing a career is actually a privilege; to possess a degree of volition about work is in many ways a luxury that does not avail itself to everyone. Career or career development from a Western perspective adheres to a career path or trajectory, always moving forward and upward. Another assumption is that individuals possess multiple career options and assume control over their career direction. For millions of people around the world, work is a job that is not commonly viewed from this career perspective. In these scenarios, many individuals do not equitably possess the opportunities, resources, and education to willingly follow passion as suggested by Jobs and others who preach the DWYL message.

The Shortcomings of Passion

When passion language is overused or trivialized, it loses its intended value and influence. When this language is used in this manner, the DWYL messages become diluted to the point of being trite and saccharine. In other words, teaching that satisfying one’s passion is the sole outcome often does a disservice to some students. Not all students are able to blissfully heed Jobs’s advice without considering the implications of their decisions for family, community members, and significant others. For example, Jobs’s message of “just keep searching for your passion until you find it” sounds inspirational and lofty for Stanford graduates who are mostly privileged traditional-age students, yet it does little to support students who might not have those same opportunities due to limited time, financial resources, student debt, taking care of siblings, and parenting responsibilities, among others. In these cases, the decision-making process becomes much more complex and dynamic in terms of the varied factors involved. Ideally, student affairs educators and other higher education professionals are mindful of these systemic factors when supporting all students from a holistic student development stance (Kuh, 2018).

Another limitation and assumption of the DWYL message is that all work should be a passion, or evolve into one. Higher education professionals, including student affairs professionals, should definitely encourage students to pursue major and career areas that interest them. We want students to opt in to disciplines that intrigue them. However, not all work-related choices necessarily need to be a true passion. There are varied messages and circumstances influencing students’ decision-making processes that should be factored into ongoing discussions about work; these variables are complex and extend far beyond finding passion. Academic institutions need to do a better job of offering more of these career exploration activities to students, especially during the first and second years (Stebleton & Diamond, 2018). Most students enter college with limited reflection and self-assessment around factors involved in career decision-making process, such as interests, values, skills, occupational knowledge, and the future of work. For many, an understanding of the range of career choices might be limited by what students know from immediate family members. Students may inaccurately assume they have only one option to make the best choice, instead of realizing that they will likely have multiple work opportunities and careers over a lifetime (Lent, 2018). Rather than rely on messages of DWYL, we can do a better job of supporting students to fully engage in the decision-making process by exploring other messages and factors, including an examination of purpose.

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The Imperative of Perpetual Motion: A Reflection on Rest and Rust

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The Motivational Force of Passion: An Unyielding Commitment

The anthem of individual empowerment: "if you rest, you rust".

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The Abyss of Indolence: Lessons from Personal and Political Realms

The symbiotic dance: love, labor, and lifelong learning, resisting rust: strategies for embracing perpetual motion, conclusion: the ongoing symphony of love, labor, and life.

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The Importance of Doing What You Love

Procrastination is the thief of time

You Are Not Lazy, You Just Don’t Like What You Do 

“Procrastination is the thief of time,” said the renowned English poet Edward Young. We often find ourselves labelled as lazy when we struggle to complete tasks or lack the drive to pursue our goals. However, what if laziness isn’t the root cause?

What if the real issue lies in our disconnection from our true passions and interests? In this blog post, we will explore the idea that laziness is frequently misunderstood and that the key to unlocking our potential lies in doing what we love.

Thesis statement: Contrary to popular belief, laziness is often a misinterpretation of one’s lack of interest or passion for their work. When we engage in activities that align with our passions, we tap into a wellspring of motivation and purpose. This blog post will delve into the significance of doing what you love, shedding light on how it can bring personal fulfilment, enhance motivation, and ultimately lead to a more satisfying and meaningful life.

Importance of doing what you love: When we engage in activities that genuinely ignite our passion, something remarkable happens. Our work ceases to be a mundane chore and instead becomes a source of inspiration and joy. 

By aligning our actions with our passions, we embark on a journey of personal fulfilment, discovering the boundless energy and enthusiasm that lies within us. Moreover, doing what we love has a profound impact on our motivation, propelling us to push boundaries, overcome challenges, and achieve remarkable feats. Ultimately, by embracing our passions, we unlock the key to a more purposeful and satisfying life, where each day is filled with meaning and a genuine sense of accomplishment.

In the following sections, we will explore the connection between passion and motivation, challenge the concept of laziness, discuss the benefits of doing what you love, and provide practical steps for finding and pursuing your passions. Let us unravel the mysteries of laziness and uncover the transformative power of pursuing our true callings.

Understanding the Link Between Passion and Motivation 

Passion and motivation are deeply interconnected. When we are truly passionate about what we do, it sparks an internal drive that fuels our motivation, leading to increased productivity and a profound sense of purpose in our lives.

Passion ignites intrinsic motivation: Passion is the fire that burns within us, propelling us forward and inspiring us to give our best. Unlike external motivators, such as rewards or recognition, intrinsic motivation arises from the sheer joy and fulfilment derived from engaging in activities we are passionate about. When we are passionate, we become fully immersed in our work, experiencing a state of flow where time seems to fly by. 

This intrinsic motivation pushes us to overcome challenges, explore new possibilities, and continuously strive for improvement.

Examples of success through pursuing passion: Countless individuals have found remarkable success and happiness by wholeheartedly pursuing their passions. Consider the story of J.K. Rowling, who, despite facing numerous rejections, persisted in writing the Harry Potter series because of her immense passion for storytelling. Her dedication paid off, leading to a worldwide literary phenomenon that touched the lives of millions.

Another inspiring example is Malala Yousafzai, who demonstrated immense passion for education and women’s rights, even in the face of grave danger. Her unwavering commitment to her cause led to her becoming the youngest Nobel Prize laureate and an influential advocate for global education.

These stories highlight how being driven by passion can lead to incredible achievements and a deep sense of fulfilment. When we follow our passions, we tap into our unique strengths and abilities, enabling us to create a positive impact in our chosen fields.

Addressing common counterarguments: It is important to acknowledge that following one’s passion may come with challenges and potential pitfalls. Financial uncertainty, societal pressure, or the fear of failure can be significant barriers. However, it is crucial to recognise that the rewards of pursuing our passions often outweigh the risks.

Financial stability is a valid concern, but it is worth exploring alternative paths or creative solutions that allow for the integration of passion into our lives. Many successful individuals started small, gradually building their careers and financial stability while pursuing their passions on the side. By prioritizing our passions, we can unlock our full potential and find innovative ways to monetize our interests.

Societal pressure may also discourage us from pursuing our passions, as certain paths are often deemed more “practical” or “prestigious.” However, living a fulfilling life requires authenticity and staying true to ourselves. By embracing our passions, we contribute to our own happiness and well-being, inspiring others to do the same.

In conclusion, the link between passion and motivation is undeniable. When we align our actions with our true passions, intrinsic motivation takes hold, propelling us towards increased productivity, personal growth, and a profound sense of purpose.

While challenges may arise, it is essential to remember that the rewards of pursuing our passions extend far beyond material gains. By embracing our passions, we unlock the door to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Unveiling the True Nature of Laziness

Laziness is often misunderstood as an inherent personal characteristic when in reality, it is often a symptom of disinterest or a lack of passion for the work at hand. By challenging the concept of laziness and exploring the underlying factors that contribute to it, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and unlock the potential for personal growth and fulfilment.

Laziness as a symptom of disinterest: Rather than labelling individuals as lazy, it is essential to recognize that disinterest in certain tasks or activities can manifest as a lack of motivation. 

When we engage in work that does not align with our passions or values, it becomes challenging to find the drive to excel. Instead of blaming ourselves for laziness, it is crucial to reflect on whether our disinterest stems from a genuine lack of passion or alignment with our true calling.

External factors contributing to feelings of laziness: It is important to acknowledge that external factors, such as a toxic work environment or a lack of purpose, can significantly impact our motivation and contribute to feelings of laziness.

A toxic work environment can drain our energy, demotivate us, and lead to disengagement from our tasks. Similarly, a lack of purpose or meaning in our work can leave us feeling directionless and unfulfilled. These external factors can falsely be interpreted as laziness when, in reality, they are the result of adverse circumstances.

The role of self-reflection: Self-reflection is a powerful tool for distinguishing between laziness and a genuine lack of passion. By taking the time to evaluate our feelings and experiences, we can gain insight into what truly inspires us and what drains our motivation. 

It is essential to ask ourselves meaningful questions: What activities make us come alive? What tasks or projects have brought us the most joy and fulfilment? By reflecting on our own situations, we can identify areas of discontent and pinpoint whether our lack of motivation stems from laziness or misalignment with our passions.

Differentiating between laziness and a genuine lack of passion allows us to make informed decisions about our lives and careers. It empowers us to seek opportunities that ignite our enthusiasm and propel us towards personal and professional growth.

By embracing self-reflection, we can uncover our true passions and pursue work that aligns with our values, ultimately breaking free from the constraints of laziness and unlocking our full potential.

In the next section, we will explore the myriad benefits of doing what you love. We will delve into how pursuing our passions can unleash creativity and innovation, improve overall well-being, and enhance job satisfaction and performance.

The Benefits of Doing What You Love

Pursuing our passions and doing what we love brings forth a multitude of benefits that extend beyond personal fulfilment. In this section, we will explore how following our passions can unleash creativity and innovation, improve well-being and mental health, enhance job satisfaction and performance, and have a positive ripple effect on our personal lives.

Unleashing creativity and innovation: When we are deeply passionate about our work, we open ourselves up to a world of creativity and innovation. Pursuing our passions allows us to explore new ideas, perspectives, and approaches, leading to breakthroughs and advancements in our respective fields. 

When we are driven by love and enthusiasm, we are more likely to think outside the box, take risks, and push boundaries. This pursuit of passion not only benefits us individually but also contributes to the progress and evolution of society as a whole.

Improved well-being and mental health: Engaging in activities we love has a profound impact on our well-being and mental health. 

When we immerse ourselves in our passions, we experience a state of flow, where time seems to disappear, and we are fully present in the moment. This immersion in something we truly enjoy reduces stress promotes a sense of fulfilment, and boosts our self-confidence. 

By prioritizing our passions, we create a positive and nurturing environment for our mental well-being, which in turn spills over into other areas of our lives.

Enhanced job satisfaction and performance: Research consistently shows that individuals who are passionate about their work tend to experience higher levels of job satisfaction and perform at a higher level. When we love what we do, work no longer feels like a chore but becomes an integral part of our identity and purpose. 

Passion fuels our motivation, commitment, and perseverance, allowing us to overcome challenges and excel in our chosen fields. As a result, we are more likely to achieve success, both in terms of personal fulfilment and professional growth.

The ripple effect on personal life: Pursuing our passions not only impacts our professional lives but also has a ripple effect on our personal lives. When we are passionate and fulfilled in our work, it positively influences our overall well-being, happiness, and relationships. 

Our enthusiasm and zest for life inspire those around us, fostering a positive environment and encouraging others to pursue their own passions. Furthermore, by aligning our work with our values and passions, we can achieve a harmonious work-life balance, leading to greater satisfaction in all areas of life.

In summary, the benefits of doing what you love are vast and impactful. Pursuing our passions unleashes our creativity and leads to innovation, improves our well-being and mental health, enhances job satisfaction and performance, and creates a positive ripple effect on our personal lives. By prioritizing our passions, we unlock our full potential, leading to a life filled with purpose, fulfilment, and success.

In the concluding section, we will provide practical steps and strategies for finding and pursuing your passions, empowering readers to take action and create a life they truly love.

Practical Steps for Finding and Pursuing Your Passion 

Finding and pursuing your passion is a journey of self-discovery and growth. In this section, we will provide practical steps to help you identify your true passions, overcome obstacles, and navigate the path towards a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Encourage self-exploration: Begin by engaging in self-reflection and introspection. Take time to assess your interests, values, and what truly brings you joy. Consider journaling to explore your thoughts and emotions, as well as engaging in activities that ignite your curiosity. Trying new experiences, hobbies, or volunteering in different fields can provide valuable insights into what resonates most with you.

Discuss the importance of experimentation: Embrace the mindset of experimentation and be open to trying different paths. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and step out of your comfort zone. Allow yourself the freedom to explore various interests and see what truly sparks your passion. Remember, it’s okay to change directions along the way as you discover new aspects of yourself and what brings you fulfilment.

Address potential obstacles: Recognize that pursuing your passion may come with challenges, but don’t let them deter you. Overcome the fear of failure by reframing it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Financial constraints can be addressed by considering creative ways to integrate your passion into your life, such as starting as a side project or gradually transitioning into a new career. Remember, societal expectations should not dictate your path—prioritize your own happiness and well-being.

Advocate for persistence and adaptation: Stay committed to your passions, even in the face of setbacks or obstacles. Embrace the idea that interests can evolve over time, and be willing to adapt and pivot as you gain new insights and experiences. Remain open to continuous learning and growth, as this will help you navigate your journey with resilience and flexibility.

Additionally, seek support and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passions or are on a similar path. Join communities, attend workshops, or connect with mentors who can provide guidance, inspiration, and accountability.

Remember, finding and pursuing your passion is a lifelong process. It may take time to fully uncover and embrace what truly ignites your soul. Stay patient, be kind to yourself, and trust in the journey. Embrace the excitement of self-discovery and take proactive steps towards creating a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfilment.

In conclusion, you are not lazy if you don’t love what you do; it’s simply a matter of aligning your actions with your true passions. By understanding the link between passion and motivation, challenging the concept of laziness, and acknowledging the benefits of doing what you love, you can embark on a path of personal fulfilment and success.

By taking practical steps to identify and pursue your passions, overcoming obstacles, and remaining persistent and adaptable, you can create a life that resonates with your true desires. Remember, the journey towards a fulfilling life is yours to embark upon, and by embracing your passions, you unlock the potential for a future filled with purpose and joy.

Click here to register for the 7-day Shift , a transformative program that can help you unlock your true potential and create a life filled with passion and purpose. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to start your journey towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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500-word on Why I Love You

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the importance of doing what you love essay

Student Essays

8 Essays on My Passion – Importance of Passion in Life [ 2024 ]

Passion is an important force in our life that helps a man in many ways. It’s the passion that helps to achieve great laurels in life, achieve wonderful things in life, bring innovations, solve hard core problems of life etc. Passion is the greatest motivating force that helps a man to withstand adversity with excellence. The following Essay on Passion talks about its core meaning, importance of passion in life and why its important for students.

Essay on Passion | Essay on Importance of Passion in Life 

Passion is something that’s hard to define. It’s something that we feel, rather than something we see. It’s what compels us to do the things we love, and drives us to be the best we can be. For me, passion is all about creating and experiencing beauty. Whether it’s through writing, painting, or simply appreciating the world around me, I find immense satisfaction in beauty.

Essay on passion

Importance of Passion in Life

Passion is important because it can be the difference between a life that’s mediocre and a life that’s extraordinary. It’s what allows us to tap into our full potential and achieve great things. Without passion, we would simply go through the motions of life without ever really living. Passion is what makes us feel alive and fills us with purpose.

Passion can be used in many different ways. It can be the driving force behind our actions and the motivation to pursue our dreams. It can also be a source of inspiration, helping us to see the world in a new and beautiful way. Ultimately, passion is something that we each have to find for ourselves. It’s what makes us unique and special. Passion is what makes life worth living.

My Passion in Life

I am passionate about many things in life, but most important passion that has driven me so far is art. I’ve always been drawn to the arts, and I believe that creativity is one of the most important aspects of life. It’s what allows us to express ourselves, and to connect with others on a deeper level. Art can transcend boundaries, and it can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation. I’m grateful for the opportunities that I’ve had to express myself creatively, and I hope to continue doing so for years to come.

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Inculcating Passion

One of the best ways to help children develop a passion is to expose them to as many different things as possible. This can be done through activities like going to museums, or taking classes in various subjects. It’s also important to encourage children to follow their dreams and to never give up on their passions. Helping children find their passion is one of the most important things we can do as parents and educators. It’s what will help them lead fulfilling and successful lives. It will help them to find their voice in the world, and to make a difference in the lives of others.

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Therefore, Passion is the driving force of human progress so far. All great achievers have been passionate about something. We need to find our passion and pursue it wholeheartedly if we want to achieve extraordinary things in life. Life without Passion is meaningless.

Essay on My Passion in Life:

My passion in life is something that has been with me for as long as I can remember. It’s a driving force, a constant source of inspiration and motivation, and it brings so much joy and fulfillment to my life.

Growing up, I was always encouraged to explore different activities and hobbies to find what truly sparked my interest. From music to sports to art, I dabbled in many areas, but nothing quite captured my heart like writing did. From the moment I started putting words on paper, I knew that this was my passion.

Writing allows me to express myself in ways that I never thought possible. It’s a form of therapy, a way to process my thoughts and emotions, and a means to connect with others. Whether it’s through poetry, short stories, or personal essays, writing gives me a voice and allows me to share my perspective with the world.

But my passion for writing goes beyond just self-expression. It’s also a way for me to make an impact and leave a lasting impression on others. Through my words, I hope to inspire, educate, and bring about positive change in the world. Whether I’m writing about social issues, personal experiences, or fictional tales, my goal is always to ignite something within the reader and leave them with a newfound perspective.

My passion for writing has also led me to constantly seek out new knowledge and skills. I’m always reading books on different writing techniques, attending workshops and conferences, and connecting with other writers to learn from their experiences. This constant growth not only helps me improve my craft, but it also deepens my love for writing and keeps the flame of passion burning bright.

As I continue on my writing journey, I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and the people who have supported me. My passion in life has not only brought immense joy to myself, but it has also allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals and build a community of passionate writers.

In conclusion, my passion for writing is an integral part of who I am. It has shaped my identity, provided me with purpose and meaning, and continues to be a source of endless possibilities.

Short Essay on my Passion for Fashion:

Fashion has always been a significant part of my life. Since I was young, I have been fascinated by the way people express themselves through clothing. The colors, patterns, fabrics, and styles all come together to create an individual’s unique fashion statement.

As I grew older, my passion for fashion only intensified. I started experimenting with different styles and trends, trying to find my own personal aesthetic. I would spend hours scrolling through fashion blogs and magazines, admiring the latest collections from top designers.

Not only do I love fashion for its outward appearance, but also for the creativity and artistry behind it. Designers are constantly pushing boundaries and expressing themselves through their designs, which is something that deeply inspires me.

Fashion is not just about following trends; it’s about self-expression, confidence, and creativity. It has the power to make a statement and evoke emotions.

My passion for fashion led me to pursue a degree in Fashion Design, where I have learned the technical skills of garment construction and design principles. Through this, I have been able to bring my ideas to life and create clothing that is a reflection of my personal style.

Fashion will always be a significant part of my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to turn my passion into a career. It allows me to constantly learn and grow, all while expressing myself in a unique and meaningful way. Overall, fashion has not only shaped my sense of style but also who I am as an individual. So, I will continue to follow my passion and see where it takes me on this exciting journey of self-discovery through fashion.

Essay on My Passion For Learning:

Learning has always been a fundamental part of my life. I have had a deep curiosity about the world around me from an early age, and this curiosity has only grown stronger as I have gotten older. For me, learning is not just a means to an end or something that needs to be done for school or work – it is a lifelong pursuit that brings joy and fulfillment to my life.

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to have parents who encouraged and supported my love for learning. They always made sure that I had access to books, educational activities, and opportunities to explore and discover new things. This laid the foundation for me to develop a strong passion for learning, as well as a thirst for knowledge that cannot be quenched.

One of the things that I love about learning is that there is always something new to discover. No matter how much I learn, there will always be more to explore and learn about. This constant cycle of discovery and growth keeps me motivated and excited to continue my journey of learning.

Through my passion for learning, I have been able to expand my horizons, challenge myself, and develop new skills. It has not only helped me in my academic and professional pursuits but also in my personal life. Learning has taught me how to think critically, problem-solve, and communicate effectively – skills that are essential for success in any aspect of life.

Moreover, learning has opened up a whole world of possibilities for me. It has allowed me to explore different subjects, cultures, and perspectives, broadening my understanding of the world and fostering empathy towards others. It has also given me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for learning.

In conclusion, my passion for learning is not something that can be easily put into words. It is a driving force in my life that motivates me to continue growing, exploring, and discovering. Learning is not just a hobby or a habit for me – it is a way of life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing every day. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Essay on My Passion for Football:

Football has been my passion from a very young age. I remember watching my first match at the age of 6 and being completely mesmerized by the energy and excitement on the field. I couldn’t wait to get home and try out all the moves I saw on TV with my friends.

As I grew older, my passion for football only intensified. I started playing in my school team and soon became one of the star players. I loved being on the field, feeling the rush of adrenaline as I dribbled past defenders and scored goals. It was more than just a game for me, it was a way of life.

Football has taught me valuable lessons that go beyond the field. Teamwork, discipline, perseverance – these are just some of the qualities that I have acquired through my love for football. It has also helped me stay physically fit and motivated me to push myself harder in other aspects of my life.

Being a football fan has also connected me with people from different backgrounds and cultures. The camaraderie and bond shared with fellow fans is something special and unifying.

Even though I may not be playing professionally, my passion for football continues to grow. Whether it’s watching a match with friends or playing a friendly game, football will always hold a special place in my heart. It has given me unforgettable memories and experiences that I will cherish forever. Football is more than just a sport to me, it’s my passion and I am grateful for all that it has brought into my life. So, I will continue to support my favorite team, cheer on my favorite players and spread the love for this beautiful game.

Essay on My Passion for Singing:

Singing has always been my passion since I was a child. I still remember when I used to sing along with the radio, trying to imitate the beautiful voices of my favorite singers. As I grew older, my love for singing only intensified and it became an integral part of my life.

One of the main reasons why singing is my passion is because it allows me to express myself in ways that words cannot. When I sing, I am able to convey my emotions and feelings to the audience without any barriers. It’s a form of catharsis for me, as I can release any pent-up emotions through my voice.

Moreover, singing also brings me immense joy and happiness. There is a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction when I hit the right notes and create beautiful melodies. It’s a feeling that cannot be described in words but can only be felt.

I have also had the opportunity to perform on various stages, from school functions to local competitions, and each performance has been a thrilling experience. The adrenaline rush I feel while performing is incomparable to anything else. It’s like a form of meditation for me, where I am completely immersed in the music and forget about everything else.

My passion for singing has also allowed me to meet new people who share the same love for music. I have made some lifelong friends through singing, and we often gather to jam and sing our hearts out.

In conclusion, my passion for singing is something that brings joy, fulfillment, and a sense of self-expression in my life. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s a part of who I am. I will continue to nurture this passion and strive to improve my skills as a singer.

Essay on My Passion for Swimming:

Swimming has been a major part of my life ever since I was a child. Growing up near the beach, swimming became one of the activities that I enjoyed the most. As I grew older, my love for swimming only increased, and it eventually turned into a passion.

One of the main reasons why swimming is so important to me is the sense of freedom and relaxation that it brings. Every time I dive into the water, all my worries disappear, and I feel completely at peace. It’s like a form of meditation for me, where I can disconnect from the outside world and focus on my own thoughts.

Aside from the mental benefits, swimming also has numerous physical benefits. It is a great workout for the entire body, and it helps me stay in shape and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The feeling of being weightless in the water is also a big plus for me, as I have always been fascinated by the ocean and its mysteries.

My passion for swimming has also led me to participate in competitive races and join swim teams. The adrenaline rush that comes with competing against others while pushing my own limits is exhilarating. It has taught me discipline, determination and the importance of hard work.

In conclusion, swimming is not just a hobby for me, but a passion that I will continue to pursue for as long as I can. It has been a constant source of joy, relaxation and personal growth in my life, and I am grateful to have discovered such a fulfilling activity.

Essay on My Passion for Cooking:

As a child, I was always drawn to the kitchen. While other kids were playing outside or watching cartoons, I found myself eagerly learning how to chop vegetables and mix ingredients. This early interest in cooking has only grown stronger as I’ve gotten older.

For me, cooking is not just about following recipes and making food. It’s an art form that allows me to express my creativity and passion. I love experimenting with different flavors, textures, and cooking techniques to create unique dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing.

Not only is cooking a creative outlet for me, but it’s also a way to connect with others. There’s something special about sharing a meal with loved ones – whether it’s a fancy dinner party or just a casual weeknight dinner. Cooking brings people together and creates lasting memories.

I am constantly seeking to improve my cooking skills and knowledge, whether it’s through trying new recipes or taking cooking classes. I am always excited to learn about different cuisines and techniques from around the world.

Ultimately, my passion for cooking stems from a deep love of food and the joy it brings to myself and others. It’s a never-ending journey that I am grateful to be on, and I can’t wait to see where it will take me next.

  • Start by identifying your passion.
  • Describe what you love about it.
  • Share personal experiences and anecdotes.
  • Explain how it has influenced your life or goals.
  • Convey your enthusiasm and dedication.
  • Write about the specific passion that drives you.
  • Describe how you discovered it and its significance in your life.
  • Explain how it has influenced your choices and personal growth.
  • Share examples of how you pursue or nurture your passion.
  • Convey your excitement and the impact it has on you.
  • Your passion in life is something you deeply love and are enthusiastic about.
  • It can be a hobby, a cause, a career, or an interest that brings you joy.
  • It’s unique to you and often motivates your actions and goals.
  • A passion paragraph is a concise piece of writing that briefly describes and conveys your strong interest or enthusiasm for a specific topic or activity.
  • It often introduces the reader to your passion and provides a glimpse of why it matters to you.

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Jill Biden Could Make or Break Biden’s Campaign. She Says She’s All In.

If President Biden seriously considered departing the race, the first lady would be the most important figure other than Mr. Biden himself in reaching that decision.

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President Biden and Jill Biden, the first lady, embracing on a stage, with a video screen with CNN logos behind them.

By Katie Rogers

Katie Rogers covers the Biden administration and the Biden family and reported from Washington. She is the author of a book on first ladies.

  • June 28, 2024

President Biden knew immediately after stepping off the stage in Atlanta on Thursday night that the debate had gone wrong. In those first stricken moments after a raspy, rambling and at times incoherent performance, he turned to his wife, Jill Biden.

Whatever was going to happen next in Mr. Biden’s last presidential race, after perhaps the worst moment of his long political life, was always going to come down to her. His wife of 47 years had entered his life all those decades ago, reluctant to get into politics but fully embracing his dreams and his belief that he would one day reach the White House.

Now, her 81-year-old husband looked at her after a disastrous 90 minutes onstage.

The first lady’s message to him was clear: They’d been counted out before, she was all in, and he — they — would stay in the race. Her thinking, according to people close to her, was that it was a bad night. And bad nights end.

“To say they’ve been in foxholes together doesn’t even begin to explain their bond,” said Elizabeth Alexander, the first lady’s communications director, who has been with Mr. Biden since his Senate days.

So Dr. Biden spent the 24 hours after the debate putting her decades as a political spouse to the test, projecting confidence and normalcy while effusively praising her husband. But, like the president, she is an intuitive political messenger who can sense the mood of a crowd. She knows that along with the cheering supporters, there are legions of people suddenly accusing her of forcing an old man to put one weary foot in front of the other.

If Mr. Biden were to seriously consider departing the race, allowing a younger candidate to replace him, the first lady would be the most important figure — other than the president himself — in reaching that decision.

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Feasting, drinking and blowing things up: The history of US Independence Day

the importance of doing what you love essay

Nice weather, family barbeques, parades, fireworks and red, white and blue everything ­­­– Americans are preparing to celebrate Independence Day this weekend with time-honored and beloved traditions.

Known now as a day of patriotism and enjoying time off from work, the Fourth of July began the journey to becoming a quintessential American holiday in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Though 12 of the 13 American colonies had already approved the resolution by July 2, 1776, even prompting John Adams to write his daughter with predictions of future July Second festivities, the document declaring independence from Britain wasn’t officially adopted until July 4.

Some Americans began celebrating the very same year, though the practice wouldn’t become widespread until the aftermath of the War of 1812.

Congress finally passed a bill making Independence Day a federal holiday on June 28, 1870. In 1941, the law was amended to make it a paid holiday for federal employees.

Though some traditions associated with the Fourth of July have changed or disappeared over time – hosting mock funerals for the king of England, for example – many have remained true to their roots in the almost 250 years since the declaration was signed.

If you’ve ever wondered why we associate exploding colors in the sky and feasting on outdoor meals with celebrating America’s independence, read on to learn about the origins of our favorite July Fourth festivities.  

Ultimate Fourth of July playlist: Your guide to the ultimate Fourth of July music playlist, from 'God Bless America' to 'Firework'

Fireworks displays are perhaps the most iconic of all Fourth of July revelries. The first celebration came in earnest on July 4, 1777, described on July 5 in the Pennsylvania Evening Post as a demonstration of “joy and festivities.”

Ships “dressed in the gayest manner, with the colors of the United States and streamers displayed” approached the city and fired off 13 cannon shots, one for each colony-turned-state. Later in the evening, 13 fireworks were set off in the city commons in Philadelphia and Boston, which the Evening Post described as a “grand exhibition of fireworks … and the city was beautifully illuminated.”

According to Dr. Tyler Putman , senior manager of gallery interpretation at the Museum of the American Revolution , fireworks had been used in the colonies before 1776, but not in such grand fashion.

“You would have seen fireworks at a lot of festivities, celebrations, anniversaries, you know, things like the king's birthday or big events, but they often were not enormous, launched-in-the-sky fireworks,” he told USA TODAY.

“People would build these kind of structures and frameworks that would then catch on fire, or parts of them would launch off, and often they would be in certain shapes, like a bunch of stars or a dancing person … kind of like a Burning Man sort of thing.”

It wasn’t until the 18 th century, said Putman, that fireworks were perfected and began to resemble the explosive rockets we know today.

Fireworks divide Americans: America's right to bear fireworks continues to make American Independence Day divisive

Visit any city or town on the U.S. map on the Fourth of July and you could find a parade of some sort making its way through Main Street. Mentions of parades, another tradition that harks closely back to Revolution-era origins, can be found in the earliest correspondences about the newly minted but still unofficial holiday.

In a letter John Adams wrote to his daughter , Abigail Adams, on July 2, 1776, he described what would later be known as Independence Day, predicting it would become “the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. − I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival.”

Though Adams mistakenly asserted the holiday would be commemorated on the second of the month as opposed to the fourth, he was correct in his predictions of the merrymaking to follow.

“It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more,” he wrote.

What's open on July 4th? Starbucks, McDonald's, Target, Walmart open; Costco closed

Back then, parades looked markedly different from the ones we attend today.

During the Revolutionary War, parades were generally reserved for the military, with armies marching the streets to reach their destinations. It wasn’t until years after the war, in the late 1700s to early 1800s, said Putman, that parades began to look more like what we would recognize today.

When parades began to appear as part of annual celebrations as opposed to one-off events, they didn’t yet feature the marching bands and firetrucks we’re familiar with but instead were full of groups of normal people from town. The city’s butchers, for example, would walk together as one group, and shipbuilders would construct massive floats to be pulled down the street by horses.

“Sometimes you read about parades where, like, in Philadelphia, tens of thousands of people are in the parade and you kind of wonder who is left to watch the parade,” Putman said. “There are so many people, if all the shipwright and the shoemakers and the grocers are all already marching the parade, it's mostly just kids, probably, who are like, ‘Well, I guess I'll wait as this 10,000-person parade goes by.’”

Barbeques and picnics

Independence Day falling in early July is probably reason enough to enjoy a meal outside to take advantage of the warm summer weather. The urge to fire up the grill and lay a picnic blanket out on the grass, however, can also be tied back to original holiday celebrations.

“The really interesting thing about the Fourth of July is that it then spawned all of these semi-public or private celebrations," Putman said. "So, you might go watch the parade and then you have your family barbecue. In the late 1700s, 1800s, people might go out for a big public event, like a giant picnic or parade, but then they'll go back to taverns or family homes.”

Drinking was certainly a prominent component for many Americans, some of whom would go to the local pub and propose toasts in the name of things like independence, the Constitution and the president. George Washington himself even issued double rations of rum to his soldiers on the 1778 and 1781 anniversaries in observation of the day.

Grilling tips: Grilling your burgers wrong could be risky. Here's how to do it right

Because what we now know as barbeque food began as a form of cooking brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans, it had not yet become a staple of the national diet. Instead, revelers of the day probably would have attended a pig roast or seafood boil. It wasn’t until about 100 years after independence that barbeque went from being a food for poor, enslaved people to being popularized on a national scale, Putman said.

Feasting and drinking "was true of really elite people but also really poor, common, even enslaved people, not just on the Fourth of July, but other holidays would use this as a chance to kind of build community and think about what it meant to be an American.” 

Red, white and blue everything

Walk into a grocery store in July today and you will be bombarded by red, white and blue plastered on everything from cocktail napkins to beach towels. In the early days of American independence, however, the colors were not yet representative of a flag that was recognized as universally and uniquely American. In fact, it wasn't until June 1777 that Congress even approved the first official iteration of the flag , which changed many times between inception and the final design created in 1960.

“During the Revolutionary War, flags were something that had kind of a functional purpose: They fly above a fort or they're on the top mast of a ship,” Putman said. “It's really not until the American Civil War, the 1860s, that most people started to use the flag in more personal ways.”

Before then, you would never see the average person, for example, hanging a flag in front of their house, he said. The tensions of the Civil War prompted people to begin adopting iconography of flags, which not only delineated opposing sides of the war but stood as a symbol of different things for individual Americans, like emancipation for Black Americans. During this era, the flag began to appear in places other than flying in front of government buildings, such as on shirts.

This use of the flag’s colors on everyday items grew in popularity in the 1900s, said Putman, and has become even more common in the past few decades. The 50-star flag we now recognize was not unveiled until 1960, after Hawaii and Alaska joined the union in 1959.

More on the Fourth

Looking for more ways to celebrate the Fourth? Check out our guides on some of the best holiday deals , tips for keeping everyone in the family safe and tricks to make the most of the day .

HOW TO CABIN THE REALIST INDETERMINACY THESIS: ON GREEN, POSITIVISM, AND THE SOURCES OF LAW

To appear in a collection of essays on the philosophy of Leslie Green, edited by T. Adams, K. Greasley, and D. Reaume (Oxford University Press, forthcoming)

21 Pages Posted:

Brian Leiter

University of Chicago

Date Written: July 01, 2024

Leslie Green raised an important challenge to my reconstruction of the American Legal Realist (ALR) arguments for the indeterminacy of law and legal reasoning:  how can those arguments be limited, as I claim, to mostly appellate cases?  The key, I argue, is to recognize that (1) the central ALR argument for indeterminacy appeals to the existence of equally "legitimate" but conflicting ways of interpreting valid sources of law, and (2) the relevant notion of "legitimacy" is sociological (i.e., what is actually accepted by lawyers and judges).  The ALR argument for indeterminacy being most apparent at the appellate level is then an empirical claim, which the ALRs supported with extensive evidence in many areas of law.  I also consider Green's suggestion that ALR takes most sources to be "permissive sources" (in Hart's sense), and criticize some misunderstandings of both ALR and Scandinavian Realism. 

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