A friend once told me how he envied his wife, a school teacher, who awoke each and every morning excited to go to work. “I’m a bit indifferent about work,” he confided to me. “I’m not really happy or sad about coming in here each day.”

As we talked more, I could tell that he was satisfied with his work.  He is part of the 47% of Americans that are, according to a recent study, satisfied with their jobs.

There’s a difference, however, between being satisfied with something and being passionate about it.  I wonder how those same participants would answer the question ‘Are you passionate about your job?’  Surely the percentages would be far less. 

For the past 12 years, I’ve worked in the IT area of the business world. For the most part, I’ve been satisfied with the jobs I’ve held.  In the past few years, there have been times when I’ve also been passionate about my job.  I enjoy helping people solve technical issues, and I’ve also had the opportunity to brainstorm about projects that provide a solution to a problem, and then see those projects through from start to finish. That’s a rewarding experience.

During my time in the business world, I’ve met a lot of folks and discovered that most of them are satisfied with their jobs.  But when I’ve gotten to know them on a deeper level, I’ve found that many of them are still searching to find something which they are passionate about.  They’re searching to locate what it is that they were created to do, to find the opportunities and challenges that match their unique set of skills and aptitudes.  They’re searching for a way to help others and to change their community for the better.

So, after having these conversations, I give thanks. I give thanks that I’ve found the things that energize me and bring me deep fulfillment – like being a good Dad, composing music, directing a choir, singing, writing, teaching, and helping others.  I feel lucky that I’ve found activities that renew my spirit and provide me with a sense of accomplishment.

Though it feels as though I don’t spend nearly enough of my time pursuing my passions, at least I know what they are.  And because I’ve solved that first puzzle, I can now figure out ways to make them more a part of my daily life.

To those of you still searching, from the bottom of my heart let me say that I sincerely hope you will soon find those things you are truly passionate about.  Once you’ve found them, you can then begin pursuing them with all of your heart.  The journey may be difficult, but the prize will be well worth the effort. 

Best wishes and good luck!