What Do I Want to Do in Life?: Student Tips for Finding Your Passion

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Passion is a powerful feeling of love or enthusiasm for something or about doing something. Passion fuels your energy to act and your willpower to overcome challenges. You often hear these statements in your student life: “Follow your passion” or “Be passionate about what you do.”

But it’s easier said than done. How about if you’re not sure what your passion is?

We assure you that’s okay! You’re not the only one on the journey of discovering their passion. It’s okay to reflect upon your goals or dreams and ask yourself the question, “What do I want to do in life?” Keep reading this blog as we share four tips for finding your passion!


 

1. Focus on your interests and skills.

Look at your favorite things to do! Do you love to write? Collect books? Tutor your classmates? If you enjoy doing something, you’re already a step ahead. Try to revisit your past interests, too. You might have actually liked playing the guitar or training in that particular sport. Now that you’re actively searching for your passion, your old hobbies might make a timely comeback. Don’t forget about your skill sets as well. What courses do you excel in at school? Have you had a successful job? These are all hints for you to find your passion!

You can also take your interests and skills to the next level by joining an affinity group! An affinity group is a group linked around a common interest or purpose. Inquire into the organisations in your school or at your community and sign up to be a member! Being able to come together and build connections with people with the same interests or skills can help you further embrace your identity and become passionate.

 

2. Take aptitude tests.

An aptitude test attempts to measure what a person can do or to forecast what they will be able to learn or do if they are given the proper education or training. Specific aptitude tests like those that focus on special abilities or career placement can guide you in finding your passion. These tests can assist you in self-assessment and self-understanding, encouraging reflective practice and providing you with insights into your career development. You can try some career aptitude tests here!

 

3. Look for a good mentor.

Choose a mentor who is an expert in their field as one of their expected duties is to share their expertise and experience with you to help you apply these lessons in real-life contexts. Equally important, choosing a mentor is also about the person more than the position. Therefore, seek a mentor with whom you are close and comfortable, as you would probably have a long-term relationship with them. Search for mentors who also know how to listen and provide feedback and encouragement. Looking for a mentor does not have to be overly complicated. You can start at your school by asking around and striking up a conversation with your favorite professors. More so, a good start is to speak to your guidance counselor. You can also turn to your friends or relatives with relevant work experience.

 

4. Step out of your comfort zone.

To quote an old saying: Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. It is true that you can enjoy and excel in your comfort zone; however, it limits your potential. When you step out of your comfort zone, you step into growth. So, face your fears and explore new activities. Sign up for a class you usually would not want to. Try to learn a new skill. Embrace the challenge. Just remember to take baby steps and not push yourself too far. You got this!

 

Final Tips

We leave you with these bonus tips as we end this blog: believe in yourself and trust the process.

You will find your passion as long as you believe that you will. You will find your passion as long as you have confidence in your journey.

So, practise self-love and be your own cheerleader. Learn that good things take time and focus on what you can control. You will realise what you want to do in life. You will get there.

Did these tips help you? Share them with your peers and lend a hand, too!

 

Created on: 14 February 2022

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