I am a dancer. I've been one my whole life. I just didn't always know it. Today, I can't go very long without dancing or thinking about dancing.
So how did I develop a passion it? In all honesty, I didn't. Maybe that's disheartening, especially if you were looking for a secret on how to love what you're doing more. You can only find your passion, or perhaps rediscover it.
My freshman year in college, I went with my friend to a local jam. I had never been to one and figured it would be a unique experience. Approaching the gym, I could feel the bass rumbling through the hardwood and shaking my entire core. My excitement grew as we approached the entrance. I walked through the doors in anticipation. I saw that the venue was dotted with small groups of people - some chatting, some spinning on their heads, some gliding across the floor and others patiently waiting for the competition to start. I had no understanding of dance terminology, music, or culture, but from my first steps into that space, I knew I belonged.
I moved to a crowd that had formed a small circle around three middle-aged guys. I slipped through to get a glimpse of what could possibly be drawing their attention. I saw these dancers defy what I thought the human body was capable of. Keeping my gaze on them, I nudged my friend and asked
"Hey, what are they doing?"
"Oh that's popping."
In that moment, I had found my style. I hadn't the slightest clue on how to do it, but I knew that is was meant to be my voice. Luckily for my friend, I relentlessly bugged him until he caved and taught me the basics. And I haven't stopped since.
If you are attempting to develop a passion for something, it's probably not a passion. So how will you know when you find yours?
Trust me, you'll know. And a quick hint: if you have to ask "Is this it?" I can assure you it isn't.