passion and purpose
How many times have you wondered what your passion and purpose in this life is? Why does everyone talk about it like you’re a loser if you haven’t figured it out yet? How do people even discover it? I would do all the quizzes and make lists of things that make me happy.
I love my dog. – Does that mean I should work with animals? In a shelter? Foster them?
I love my motorcycle. – Does that mean I should be a road warrior? Sell Bikes?
I love my family. – Does that mean I should be a caretaker? Work in social services?
I love my friends. – Does that mean I should lead a networking or interests group?
I love food and bev. – Should I take cooking classes? Become a Sommelier? Liquor/Wine Rep?
I love being healthy. – Should I become a personal trainer? Health coach? Dietitian?
These are the crazy thoughts that would run through my mind every time someone asked what my passion and purpose was. How in the hell do I choose something? Seriously what is my purpose in life if these are all my passions? Meanwhile, I was waiting tables working for gratuities.
One day I took a deeper look at what I’ve done with my life. What choices have I made over and over? There has to be something in what I’ve already done that drives me? There is passion in there somewhere otherwise I wouldn’t keep choosing it? I laid out my jobs and life turning points on a timeline. What do I keep doing over and over? What do I really love to do? I waited tables, managed restaurants/bars, sales, and customer service. I kept going to positions where I delivered exceptional hospitality and customer service to people. The common denominator was “serving others”. I really did love making people happy. Whether it was serving them delicious hot food or listening to and solving their problems with compassion and patience. I am pretty damn good at what I do. I am passionate about creating exceptional experiences, no matter what the industry.
I wish someone would’ve explained that to me sooner. Anyway, I found my passion, now onto the purpose. Purpose is the reason that something is done or exists. My true purpose is to give people happy memorable experiences. This is why I have given so much of my life to the hospitality industry. I think of all the compliments I’ve received over the years. I think of all the relationships I have built. I think of all the times I go above and beyond to make someone happy. I know I’m doing something right and most of the time it is unconscious. I was always raised to do unto others as you would want done unto you.
I also learned that I truly love people and humanity. I have served and connected with all walks of life. Everyone deserves to be treated like a HUMAN, regardless of class, status, race, religion, political views, opinions, etc. I love meeting new people and try to show compassion to everyone I encounter. I smile and say hello to everyone who crosses my path. You never know what other people are going through. Your smile may be the one thing that makes their day.
If you are unsure of your passion and purpose, take time to reflect on your life timeline. Look at all the big decisions and turning points. What do they have in common? It doesn’t have to be as complicated as it sounds. The good news is that your purpose is allowed to change! Quit thinking of the future and forever. It hasn’t happened yet. You have the opportunity every day for a fresh start. What are you passionate about today? Decide what your purpose will be today! Think of all the possibilities! There are no rules but your rules. Do what makes you happy now!
