Which will take you farther?
A CEO I worked for a while back was an ex-NFL player, and I believe he had great insight into the importance of passion. He would often talk about what it took to make it to the professional level of any sport. (While I'm quoting him below, it's really more of a paraphrase, as this discussion happened many years ago.)
In High School, a player's physical talent sets them apart. Strength, speed, and agility can all make a player stand out. When a player gets to college, most players are physically talented, but the most talented will rise above the rest.
However, when you enter the Pro ranks, every single person is a top physical talent. They are literally the best of the best of the best, and the only thing that sets you apart is your passion for the game.
Passion can overcome talent. Passion can keep you on the team. Passion can get you the starting spot because you're willing to outwork every other player. Talent will only get you so far. Passion is the secret.
While I believe talent IS important (notice all the people above were talented), it is the passion we bring into our work that will set us apart.
What do I mean by passion? Passion is not working until burnout. Passion is not being out of harmony (or balance) with the rest of your life. Passion is an enthusiasm that you are doing something amazing that connects to your values and mission; that there is a greater purpose to the work you are doing. Working with passion doesn't mean you won't experience setbacks, losses, or frustrations, but it does mean those same setbacks, losses, and frustrations can lead to growth.
My question for you is, what are you bringing into each day? Are you depending on your talents and expertise or are you multiplying your talents with your passion? If you're not working with passion, what will it take for you to find it?
Comments