People who know me know that one of  my favorite subjects is - "Professional passion."  It is a fascinating blend of commitment, energy and joyful connection to your work.   We all know how bad it feels when our passion is untapped. The remedy is to have a clear sense of purpose to be passionate about.   The challenge is to find it ... AND to maintain a commitment to refining it.

The three key elements to professional passion are:

a) Know your values and put yourself in an organization / create a team that shares them.
b) Bring those values to work with you every day.
c) Find a balance that honors your talents, preferences and the reality of what the world needs.

Here’s how to get clearer.  Consider these questions to help you discover the values that inspire you:

a) What are the accomplishments you've been completely or partially responsible for that excite you most?   How would you describe the most inspiring aspects of the processes (as well as the outcomes)?
b) How would you describe what you loved most about the best work you've done and the best collaborations you've had?
c) What are some of the NON-professional things you love... what do you love most about THOSE aspects of your life?   How could you transfer them to your work?

The experience of my impromptu Biz Mitzvah last week set in motion a new mission for me and my team and perhaps you.  That mission is the center of my work and is stated on the “Business Coaching” page of my web site.

Now it’s your turn.  What is your mission?  Here’s a hint – it’s to live, deliver and enjoy your passion, which you can now clarify in specific terms.   Please let me know if you'd like some guidance in thinking through any of these inquiries or any support on any matter. That's what I'm here for.

Author's Bio: 

Jonathan Flaks, M.C.C., Business Success Coach - http://www.jfcoach.com. Since 1998, Jonathan has been helping entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals focus on and reach ambitious goals, maintain continuous confidence and motivation, and achieve balanced success. Jonathan maintains a Master Certified Coach distinction from the International Coach Federation. He earned a dual degree from Cornell University and was Adjunct Professor in Business Leadership and Coaching Skills for New York University. Clients have come from BMG Entertainment, Morgan-Stanley-Smith-Barney, KPMG, Disney, Deloitte, Honeywell, Goldman Sachs, and many entrepreneurial and professional service firms. If you want to start every week with a positive, confident attitude, visit Monday Morning Mini-Motivation Meetings.