Cultivating Passion
DEAR readers, life is a beautiful canvas, waiting for us to sprinkle it with colours of passion, enthusiasm and zeal. As February arrives, we find ourselves surrounded by reminders of love and affection, often expressed in cards and gestures.
In this spirit, let us explore the profound question: what does it truly mean to live passionately? Are we merely existing, or are we embracing life with energy, intention and spirit? What if, instead of drifting through our daily routines, we consciously infused our lives with vibrancy and passion?
To cultivate a passionate life, we can consider a three-phase approach: before, during and after. Each phase serves as a stepping stone toward an enriched existence filled with purpose and joy.
BEFORE: Reflection and Preparation
Self-Discovery:
The first step in embracing a passionate life is self-discovery. Ask yourself, “What excites me?” This question opens the door to your interests, values and dreams. Renowned author and motivational speaker, Tony Robbins, emphasises the importance of knowing your “why”. Understanding your purpose gives meaning to your passions and drives your actions.
Goal Setting:
Once you identify your passions, set realistic goals. Break them into manageable steps. Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals ensures that your efforts align with your passions. Research by psychologist, Edwin Locke, reinforces that goal-setting dramatically enhances performance and satisfaction in life.
Planning:
Create a roadmap. For instance, if painting ignites your passion, designate specific times during the week to sit down with your brush and canvas. Planning creates accountability and transforms intentions into actions.
DURING: Engagement and Action
As you embark on your journey toward a more fulfilling life, it’s crucial to lead with HEARTS – an acronym that stands for hugs, encouragement, appreciation, reaching out, touch and sincerity. Infusing these elements can not only energise your life but also spark joy and positivity in you and in those around you.
Hugs: It is often said that a hug can speak volumes where words fail. Physical touch, such as hugs, releases oxytocin – the “love hormone” – which enhances feelings of connection and warmth in relationships. According to studies, social support significantly contributes to emotional well-being; as Dr BreneBrown puts it, “Connection is why we’re here; it gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” So, throw in a hug or two – it’s a simple gesture that can profoundly impact someone’s day.
Encouragement: Becoming a source of encouragement for others can create an uplifting atmosphere. Maya Angelou famously stated, “Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.” When we shine a light on someone else, we often find that our own passion is revitalised. Encouraging words can be the fuel that others need to pursue their dreams, and in helping others to see their potential, we inevitably discover our own.
Appreciation: Expressing gratitude is a transformative practice that can shift our outlook on life. Scientific studies support this, showing that practising gratitude can lead to greater happiness and a more positive mindset. Maintaining a gratitude journal is one effective method – recording even the smallest blessings can enhance your overall well-being. As Oprah Winfrey wisely noted, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more.” The act of appreciating what you have cultivates abundance in all areas of your life.
Reaching Out: Building strong relationships fuels our passions and opens doors to new opportunities. The simple act of reaching out to friends or even acquaintances can yield surprising results. As motivational speaker, Lewis Howes, wisely advises, “Your network is your net worth.” Make it a habit to check in with others; you never know what fruitful conversations may emerge from those simple efforts.
Touch: Engaging with the world directly is essential for nurturing our passions. Touching experiences – whether they involve nature, art, or human interaction – connect us emotionally and deeply. As author Toni Morrison said, “If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.” Embracing these experiences can lighten your emotional load and elevate your spirit.
Sincerity: Authenticity in our interactions fosters trust and deeper connections. When we express genuine feelings, we invite others to do the same, creating a vibrant community centred around shared passions. Brené Brown encapsulates this beautifully: “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.” Being open and sincere not only enriches your life but also encourages others to forge their own authentic paths.
Leading with HEARTS isn’t just a strategy; it is a heartfelt commitment to enriching your life and the lives of those around you. By embracing these principles, you can create a ripple effect of positivity and passion in your community.
AFTER: Reflection and Growth
Reflect: Periodically take time to reflect on your experiences. What did you learn? What could you do differently? This reflection will help you adapt and grow, allowing your passions to evolve over time.
Adjust and Set New Goals: As you evolve, so may your passions. Reassess your goals regularly; do not hesitate to pivot or change direction. The words of John Quincy Adams resonate here, “Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”
In this journey of cultivating passion, we mustn’t forget the spiritual dimension. Putting God first in our lives can provide a strong foundation, guiding us through every chaotic moment. When we prioritise our spiritual needs, we enhance our mental and emotional well-being. As Matthew 6:33 states, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” By seeking divine guidance, we invite wisdom into our decisions and relationships.
This divine approach also extends to our family and community. Nurturing our relationships with loved ones creates an environment filled with support, encouragement and shared passions. Furthermore, focusing on health, wealth and education paves the way for a holistic life – nurturing the mind, body and spirit.
In February, as we celebrate love in various forms, remember that it starts with self-love and extends outward to our community. As Mother Teresa said, “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”
Last week, we explored the psychology of colour, particularly how red influences emotions and actions. Just as red can evoke feelings of excitement, energy and passion, embracing diverse interests can help infuse our lives with similar vitality. Passion is coloured not by one hue but by a spectrum – be it through creativity, relationships, or personal growth.
In the same way that colours impact our mood and decisions, our passions contribute to the tapestry of our lives. February, adorned with celebrations of love and affection, serves as a perfect backdrop to reevaluate our connection with passion and the vibrancy it brings.
As we embark on the journey of cultivating passion, let us express our gratitude to God for His guiding grace. Each day is a gift, an opportunity to explore our unique talents, nurture meaningful relationships, and contribute to our community.
My wish for the world is: may we all embrace our passions wholeheartedly, creating a tapestry of love, compassion and enthusiasm that enriches not only our lives but the lives of those we touch. As the famous author and philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson, said, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Let us approach life, friends, and dreams with a passionate heart and open mind.
Here’s to life in full colours! May we all cultivate our passions, infusing energy, spirit and vibrancy into every day.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
