How To Make Time For The Work You’re Actually Passionate About
Sometimes our hobbies can transform into potential new careers that lead us to become more passionate. It also applies to going back to school after many years. But how do we balance the day-to-day with something we are passionate about, especially when we feel less and less motivated? Some important steps are: building a routine, starting your day early, following and learning from people that are pursuing similar interests, planning your tasks, making realistic goals, and knowing that time is your friend and not your enemy. These steps can catapult your vision into something more. The problem is to take the time and find the motivation when you just are not feeling it. Reminding yourself that your purpose is a lot more can catapult you into getting closer to your dreams.
Building a routine can be a game-changer. It is something I needed to learn the hard way. When you shift your priorities and start your day with a clear vision, it can help you accomplish more in a shorter period. Having zero structure will only allow us to fall further into the chaos of not wanting to do much; it’s how we can easily slip into wasting countless hours on social media, not doing much except scrolling. When you slowly begin to build your foundation, you can be the architect of your destiny.
Wake up early. Part of building a routine is knowing at what time to start your day fresh. Nothing of importance can be accomplished if we begin the day later than usual. The start of the day allows us to plan and structure our time efficiently. It is also a fantastic opportunity to focus spiritually and mentally before stepping outside or turning on the computer. It can be daunting thinking about waking up an hour earlier, but start with waking up 10 minutes earlier than usual until you make it to 30 minutes. It can also help you get breakfast in before starting on any major tasks.
Use social media wisely by following people who spark your inspiration. Recently, I wanted to pursue a new educational goal, so I began following people that I admire to see how they went on their journey to get to where they want to be. Doctorates will take more schooling and several more years, but I am confident that this is the path I am sticking to for the long haul, even if it feels overwhelming right now. Talking to someone in the field has opened my eyes and allowed me to set realistic expectations for the future.
Planning and using the tools available to me has been important this year. I have always been a fan of planners, but now I see that some journaling helps as well. It allows me to stay grounded and focused, writing my thoughts and expectations. Meanwhile, my planner is a reminder of the small steps I need to go through to break through and get towards my destination. Excel easily became my best tool along with my journal. Being able to use the tools and devices you have can make a drastic impact, especially when you keep track of schoolwork due for the week and budgeting options.
Something we tend to do is make lots of unrealistic expectations. So begin by being practical. If you know your goal is going to take more than five years, take it easy and do not fight the urge to beat the finish line ahead of time. Do not compare your journey to others. We are here to learn from others and maybe even follow their advice. It is best to seek help from mentors and guidance counselors, but comparing your journey with someone else is futile and will only bring setbacks and additional frustration. Start small, learn from others through their social media or books they may have written. After all, this is your journey, so savor it. Rushing will only bring burnout, fear, mistakes, and disillusion.
Understand that time is your friend and not your enemy. It means that just because you do not see the successes you expect early on, means you should not give up. If you are not seeing things happening, change your strategy and be patient. Nothing happens overnight, since it can take people many years to get to the destination.
Finally, do not give up on your passion. If it brings you happiness and joy, stick with it. Understand that a balance is needed with everything, because time can eventually lead us into the burnout phase. Learn to know when you need a break because it can work wonders. A job or hobby you love can easily warp into something you dread or hate if you do not pay attention or listen to the signs. Take breaks, recharge, and carry on.
Finding something we are passionate about is incredible, but sometimes getting to that dream destination takes time. Many of us do not think about the importance of waking up early and having structure for getting closer to our goals. Patience is your best friend as you make it through your next great adventure. Stay focused, keep going, and do not let fear or any setbacks stop you.