Let’s take a journey to turn your passion into purpose. We are all seeking meaning in our lives. What makes it worthwhile to wake up every day? Some find their purpose, and others are still on the path, seeking that secret ingredient that brings fulfillment. Passion is a driving force that leads us to pursue our hopes, plans, and dreams. Passion for a cause is about deep, enthusiastic commitment to an issue or mission that you find important. A passion that drives you to become an advocate for change. Working for a cause usually means you will dedicate significant time and energy to support your cause.
There are many benefits to turning your passion into purpose. Beyond the satisfaction of making a difference, you will find a sense of belonging and a social connection by joining groups or associations aligned with your cause.
What is needed?
Motivation is needed. People who are advocating for a cause are highly motivated to make a difference. They are willing to invest time and energy into service for the cause. You may find your motivation through personal experiences, values, or a need to contribute to your community. Our motivation may be driven by many factors, such as cancer of a family member, exposure to issues ranging from veterans, child or elder abuse, or the environment.
“You have to be burning with an idea, or a problem, or a wrong that you want to right. If you’re not passionate enough from the start, you’ll never stick it out.”
– Steve Jobs
People who are deeply engaged and invested in their cause often find a strong emotional connection. This investment makes them willing to go above and beyond to support the cause. There is a strong emotional connection. Engaging in a cause with passion not only gives your life meaning and purpose, but also a profound sense of fulfillment.
Steps to identify a cause
Finding a cause to support can be a rewarding journey. We can find challenges and growth in the process.
What issues matter the most to you? Are you interested in children, animals, environment conservation, education, healthcare, or social justice? Our cause should align with our values and beliefs.
Your personal experiences which can help you find a cause. Here are some people who found their life mission.
- John Walsh’s child was abducted and killed. He dedicated his life to helping others find their children.
- Nelson Mandela’s personal experience with apartheid in South Africa sent him on a lifelong journey in the struggle against racial segregation.
- Jane Goodall’s close encounters with chimpanzees led her to dedicate her life to primatology and conservation.
Your stories may not be of a cause that becomes your life, but your story is important as we each can be a change agent, promote an idea or cause, and change the world. Examine what has touched your life and what you can see yourself committing to for change.
Do research and explore options. Seek out the organization’s mission and their work.
Volunteering is an excellent way to learn about a cause. It gives you a firsthand look at what work the organization is doing and allows you to see the impact. You do not have to dedicate your life to a cause. Start small by volunteering a few hours of your time. If it is not for you, then keep searching.
The best advice is to follow your heart. What are you passionate about? What brings you joy? Finding the right cause may take some time. Your passion is powerful and can lead to to a cause that resonates with you.
Community, Compassion, and Quality of Life: The Impact of Volunteering, by Linda L. Pilcher
4 Steps to Finding Your Cause and Making a Difference, by Paul Talbot
Where to look
Join or start a group or club. Join community groups. Go to meetings to meet people with similar interests and see what they are doing.
Many organizations rely on volunteers. Look around your area for volunteer opportunities. Check the food bank or community clean-ups. You could share your talents and skills by mentoring youth. You could make a big difference in the life of a child or your community.
Support local charities by making a financial contribution or donating items like clothes, school supplies, food, or pet items to the Humane Society. Many of these organizations are ran by volunteers. You can also provide professional expertise to help with marketing, accounting, or web development.
Get involved with your community. Attend meetings to stay informed about local issues. Participate in events such as fundraisers and festivals.
There are even opportunities to be a Virtual Volunteer; look at the MESO Foundation.
If you are young and have the freedom to move around the world. There are opportunities abroad, such as environmental conservation, wildlife and animal care, healthcare, construction and renovation, and disaster relief. These opportunities would also help you to build your resume and skills.
Check out these websites that link to volunteer opportunities in your area.
- VolunteerMatch
- Volunteer.gov
- Students Speak Up For Kids
- Actions Without Borders Inc.
- AARP Volunteer Opportunities
Finding your voice
So you have a cause you are passionate about; how do you connect with others, spread the word, and recruit volunteers?
Share your vision on social media platforms. Share images and videos to capture attention. But most importantly, share personal stories and testimonials related to your cause. These humanize the issue and help your audience to connect with the cause on deeper level. Create blogs, podcasts, and YouTube videos, or create a unique hashtag.
Follow your dreams. What truly matters? When you can answer this question, your voice becomes powerful.
Seek inspiration from books, music, nature, and people. Inspiration can drive your passion. As you can see through my blogs, I love quotes. The reason with me and amplify an idea in simple words.
Embrace your uniqueness. Your individuality is your best asset.
The Power of Authenticity – Becoming Your True Self, by Linda L. Pilcher
Conclusion
As a habitual volunteer, I have had the opportunity to give time as an auxiliary helper in the emergency room of a hospital, sit on the board of directors, and be a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters. I have also held officer roles in many environmental groups over the years. Look for a cause that means something to you. In each of these volunteer roles, I gained incredible insight and learned new skills that were transferable to my work. I met so many interesting people that I would never have had the opportunity to get to know if I had instead decided to sit at home.
“Find your passion, whatever it may be. Become it, and let it become you, and you will find great things happen for you, to you and because of you.”
– Alan Armstrong
We all have an opportunity to make the world a better place. By getting out and engaging with a cause, we help others live better lives. Your commitment as a volunteer can strengthen your community. There are many opportunities for leadership and service to others. Your personal stories can inspire others to join your cause.
How to Make a Difference in the World, The Mindset Mentor Podcast
You do not have to be the richest, smartest, strongest person to make a difference. You must engage with passion and be committed to something bigger than yourself. You have to be willing to give of your time and energy.
Recommended Books
Purpose Ignited: How inspiring leaders unleash passion and elevate cause, by Alise Cortez, PHD
Make a Difference: The Ultimate Volunteer Handbook, by Arthur Blaustein
Citations
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