Defining passion
July 27, 2011
"What do you do?"
I have a love/hate relationship with that question. It forces us to define ourselves by our jobs -- a definition that's often inaccurate. I don't always feel comfortable answering it, depending upon who's asking or how I'm feeling about my life that day. I admit that I do ask it of others, though, because it helps me get to know people better.
I read somewhere that Australians don't ask what you do. They ask instead, "What do you like to do?" I think that's wonderful -- and very telling. Makes me wonder if Australians are more fun or more balanced or less work-focused than Americans. Perhaps we could learn a thing or two from our friends down under.
Fortunately, part of my current vocation is also one of my passions. It hasn't always been that way. But I'm currently creating jewelry full-time, along with a little freelance writing.
In the
Artful Success program I am taking, we were challenged to create a passion statement for our business. (This is similar to a mission statement, but designed to be more heart-centered and energetic.)
Since I have two very different kinds of customers, I created a passion statement for each:
1. "I create unique, lovingly handcrafted jewelry that sets the wearer and her individual style apart from the crowd."
2. "I create custom pet memorial pendants that comfort grieving people with a beautiful way to help them honor and memorialize their furry family members."
So now, go ahead, ask me what I do! I'm ready!
