Passion or purpose? You can call it what you like but the importance is the same. Finding something that calms your soul, warms your heart and energises you is an important part of positive mental health. Passion can be anything from an activity, hobby or even a favourite place.
There will always be times in our lives that challenge us. Being mentally healthy isn’t just about being happy, it’s about working through the challenges. A very big part of working through life’s ups and downs is building your very own armour of strength. Part of this armour should be your passion. Following your passion is a life long goal for so many but using your ‘passion activity’ as a positivity builder in difficult times should be a goal for each and every one of us.
Your passion does not have to be obvious or even shared with others. Think about what you would love to be doing if you had a choice? That thing in life that energises you? That place that makes you smile? The go to activity to calm your nerves? …That right there is your passion.
Be very wary as a parent to not pidgeon hole or choose your child’s passion for them. It is very easy to assume that your offspring will be and should be just like you – incorrect, they are themselves very much individuals. Individual passion cannot be forced, it has to be chosen and encouraged even if it is a totally out of your parenting comfort zone. Young people will choose their passion when they are ready. Make sure you encourage their journey and not place road blocks along the way because you are not comfortable driving along that path.
If you don’t have a passion don’t panic. Find a place that you find comfort in. Whenever you feel the need to increase the strength in your positivity go to that place or even close your eyes and imagine the sounds, smells and sights you see. Embrace your senses to draw on the positive feeling you have in your personal place.
Spend time building your ‘personal positivity armour’ because I guarantee you will need it more than you think!
By Kate Meadows