I think it's important to have something to be passionate about.

[Denninmi]

Something that has really helped me - developing a real passion for cycling. Not just something "to do", but something I think about daily, try to learn about, discuss with like-minded guys, am trying to become serious about so that I can enter some amateur events in a year or two. When things were bad, it was an escape. Now, it's a true passion - I look forward to getting in that time more than anyone can know. And when I am doing it, I enjoy competing against myself in so many ways - time, watts/power, route, getting a bit into working with cadence.

Finding that true passion and working in developing it is a great stress reliever.

[snappyturtle]

1. Yes! I've had a down period, comes and goes, and yesterday

I thought of something to do with my work that will be a totally
new market for me. I can't tell you how having my passion take
a new direction has changed my attitude over night!

Good for you that cycling has developed into a real passion.

[mopinko]

2. gardening has always pulled my through the seasons.

i am very happy to have the work i have now. it has to be done when it has to be done, so i am carried along.
and it is such good work.

[No Vested Interest]

3. It's good, often helpful - to be passionate about something, but

more important to have a mission in life to carry you through.

I was encouraged to write a mission statement for myself by a life coach/psychologist I was seeing a few years ago.
It was most helpful in having me formalize in writing my thoughts about what is most important to me and how I will go about seeing it through.

A mission statement gives focus to our everyday living and plans.
It can be changed and adapted as needed, for our life circumstances can and do change, and we have to meet life where we are and where the rest of world and the times are.

Your passions(s) can and should fit within your overall life mission.

What do you think?

[Denninmi]

4. I think the idea is good.

I'm just not there yet.

[No Vested Interest]

5. Fair enough, Denn. You're on your way.

After all, all of us are really "on our way". Always.