Finding Passion in Your Work: A Personal Journey
Discover how finding passion in your work can transform your career. Learn the importance of intrinsic motivation and how leaders can foster a supportive environment for passionate team members.
Every morning, as the first rays of sunlight filter through my bedroom window, I find a compelling reason to get out of bed and face the world. For me, that reason is my work. It’s not just about earning a living; it's about engaging in something that gives me a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and fulfillment. But this drive didn’t come from nowhere. It's a blend of personal perspective, intrinsic motivation, and a deep-seated passion for what I do.
When I was a child, I was always curious, always asking questions and seeking to understand the world around me. This inquisitiveness followed me into adulthood and shaped my career path. I wanted to be in a field where I could explore, learn, and make a difference. Over time, I realised that what’s important to me is not just the tasks I perform but the impact they have. It's crucial to acknowledge this because being good at something and achieving results at work is a significant part of why many of us find our professions rewarding.
Intrinsic motivation is a fascinating thing. It’s that inner drive that pushes you to keep going, even when external rewards are absent. Unlike extrinsic motivation, which relies on external factors like money or recognition, intrinsic motivation comes from within. It’s about doing something because you find it inherently satisfying. You can’t tell someone to activate their intrinsic motivation; it has to come from their own passions and interests.
Ilro Lee
I remember the first time I saw someone truly passionate about their work. It was during my early career days when I worked with a senior analyst named Gary. Gary had an uncanny ability to dive deep into data, uncovering insights that others missed. His eyes would light up when he talked about his findings, and his enthusiasm was infectious. Watching Gary work was like witnessing a master artist at their craft. It was clear that his passion and his profession were perfectly aligned, and it was a beautiful sight to behold. It wasn't just about the data for Gary; it was about the stories the numbers told and the impact his work had on our projects.
However, not everyone is fortunate enough to experience this alignment. I’ve seen colleagues who were once passionate about their work become disheartened when their efforts were belittled or questioned. The change in their performance was dramatic and disheartening. When passion is undermined, it feels like a part of your identity is being attacked. This shift can lead to a significant decline in productivity and morale. It’s a stark reminder of how delicate and vital passion is in our professional lives.
For leaders, there’s a valuable lesson here. Those who work with passion bring a unique energy and creativity to their roles. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to foster this passion, embrace the energy it brings, and support your team members in their pursuits. Encouraging their interests, acknowledging their achievements, and providing opportunities for growth can make a significant difference. When people feel valued and supported, their intrinsic motivation thrives, leading to a more dynamic and successful work environment.
Ilro Lee
In my journey, I’ve been lucky to have mentors who recognised my passion and nurtured it. They provided me with challenges that kept me engaged and opportunities that allowed me to grow. Their support was crucial in helping me maintain my enthusiasm and drive. Today, as I lead my team, I strive to do the same for them. I want to create an environment where passion can flourish, where each team member feels that their work is meaningful and valued.
Passion for your work is a powerful force. It can transform mundane tasks into exciting challenges and turn a job into a calling. It’s not always easy to find, and sometimes it requires effort and introspection to discover what truly drives you. But once you do, it can make all the difference in your professional life.
Comments ()