The questions about what I will do after college have been coming steadier and faster than ever. This has gotten me to think more about what I want to pursue in this life. I’m not sure what I’ve decided and I think many young people face the same challenge. In times like these, I think back to Ben Horowitz’s advice from his commencement speech at Columbia. “Don’t follow your passion. Follow your contribution.”
This is brilliant. You obviously have to enjoy what you’re do, but luckily, when we feel like we are improving the lives of others, we enjoy it. Tony Robbins says that suffering stems from a “me-centered” view of the world. When we feel bad, we’re thinking about ourselves and what’s wrong with us. Much like how you might feel when thinking about how you have no idea what your passion is.
Tony says that happiness comes from a focus on the outside world. You can’t be angry when you’re putting a smile on a young child’s face. You can’t be angry when you’re feeling grateful and generous. When we think about helping others, our worries about ourselves disappear. That’s why following your contribution will lead to a happier and more rewarding place than following your passion.
Don’t go searching for a passion. Search for opportunities to contribute your authentic self to the world. Find the ways in which you can add value to other’s lives. Follow this contribution and you can finally stop worrying about the ever elusive “passion hunt.” You are enough. It’s fine that you don’t know what your passion is. Keep contributing to the world and it will all come back around.
(This reflection first appeared on my weekly email list. If you’re like to receive it, sign up here.)
Leave a Reply