Explore Childhood Passions to Uncover Your Purpose
What if we looked at our passions and interests as open doors into our purpose? As a child, I discovered a passion that hinted at a broader purpose.
When I was nine year old I went on a school field trip to a children’s museum. During our visit, I was drawn to a calligraphy exhibit. When I had the opportunity I grabbed the pen to try my hand at writing my name following the displayed examples. To my surprise and delight, the woman responsible for overseeing the display praised my attempt by asking, “Have you done this before?” When she recognized me it made me look at what I had written with pride.
In that moment, I felt joy and connection. It ignited a love of calligraphy within me. I practiced my “strokes and swirls” every chance I could. The questions of what I would like for my birthday or Christmas received answers about fountain pens, nibs, ink and supplies. Over the years, I have worked through many handwriting methods and manuals, my most recent being in 2021.
It sparked in me an interest and curiosity in anything to do with writing, including pens, ink and paper. It is not a surprise that my art revolves around ink, paper, strokes and swirls. And while my handwriting today is a mess because I type everything, the spark of that passion for the art of beautiful writing opened my eyes to the power of self-expression and making my “mark.”
Our passions are the unique colors on the palette of our spirit. When we feel and lean into the inner “Yes!” of joy, interest and aliveness there is no telling where it will lead us - if we allow it.
Passions from childhood can reveal talents. Walt Disney was doodling cartoons. Beatrix Potter explored nature and wrote stories. Steve Jobs tinkered with electronics. Their passions led them to the work they would one day do that aligned with their purpose.
And while not every childhood passion will lead to a career, that’s not what they are about. They show us what ignites our spirit and the vibrant colors we long to express. If we follow their trail, passions can unveil clues about our purpose.
What made your heart sing as a child? Dance, bugs, space ships, storytelling, nature? Revisiting those passions can remind us of our essential self, before the world and those around us said what we should be.
That wise inner child lives within and whispers of our purpose. Are you ready to listen?
