Occasionally, people know exactly what they’re passionate about and there is no doubt in their minds that they should pursue it. But for most, the feeling of passion is an elusive one, leaving many unclear and indecisive about the path they should embark on, or the goals they should work towards. A life without passion can feel dull and robotic, so here are 3 ways you can get closer to finding what you’re passionate about and filling your life up with it. 

• Ask yourself:
  What is my absolute favorite thing to do with my time? If the answer doesn’t come to you right away, pay attention to your day-to-day life and take note of the moments that spark joy, that get you thinking. Maybe there is a topic that you can’t get your mind off of. Keep in mind that ‘passion’ is a healthy form of ‘obsession’. So, in other words, your greatest life passion is something you feel so strongly about that someone from the outside might actually mistake it for obsession.
   
• Move towards things that make you happy
  You might think you are passionate about the stock market because it makes you a great deal of money, and who doesn’t like making money? But if you spend the work hours feeling irritable and sullen, then the stock market is not your passion. Chances are you’re living for the weekend, which is no way to live at all. Instead, be fearless about gravitating towards what makes you feel happy, even if it isn’t a notorious money-maker. When you pursue what truly fills your heart with joy and excitement, the money follows naturally. 
   
• Avoid this passion pitfall
  Though finding what you’re passionate about and turning it into a career will feel good, that doesn’t mean it won’t get hard. Some people make the mistake of interpreting hardship as a sign that they’re in the wrong field, and end up backing away from what they love instead of toughing it out. This hardship may come in the form of interpersonal conflicts in the workplace, the disapproval of friends and family, or internal self-doubt, but whatever the challenge, you must persist. Passion is a strong spirit that will carry you through difficulties.
  
  For example: I know of a boy who loved tennis so much that when he grew up, he committed his life to it. Night or day, he was never happier than when he was out on the court. When a tragic accident left him without legs, he was sure he would never be happy again. He could have chosen to pursue a new career, one that didn’t require rigorous physical activity, but his passion for tennis spoke loudly and told him there was another option. He taught himself how to play tennis in a wheelchair, and though he couldn’t compete the way he used to, the game still brought him joy. Today this man teaches tennis to people with disabilities, and he’s never felt more fulfilled in his life. 

The truth is, finding something you’re passionate about isn’t the wild goose chase it can seem like at times. When you’re following your gut, it will lead you to your passion, and if you act bravely, you will live a life full of passion. The real trick is making sure that once you’ve found your passion,  no amount of adversity can knock it from your grasp.