Benefits of Having a Non-work Passion
By Paul Rothbart
Doing what you love. That's often proposed as the key to success and happiness. When your vocation is your passion, it's not even like working. Wonderful advice with more than a grain of truth in it, but it's not always feasible. We all have to earn a living and job we're suited for that pays well may not be something that inspires passion. Even a job that you love and lose a little of the joy due to the pressures of pursuing a career and making money. Personally, I feel privileged to be a writer, as it is something that I am truly passionate about. I also write screenplays and as much as I love that, I don't particularly enjoy the business end of it. This is why having a passion outside of work can be so beneficial.
Encourages Breaks
Although it is important to put in a good effort on work, taking time off is equally important. Having a passion outside of work encourages that. It gives us something other than mindless watching of TV or looking at a computer. Engaging in an activity that you're passionate about feels productive. It's a worthwhile way to spend time and it feels good. There's no guilt over not working. Pursuing a passion is done purely out of a love for it so it doesn't carry the pressure of needing to succeed to make money.
Challenges
Personal growth is greatly enhanced by facing new challenges. We gain self-esteem and confidence by learning new skills. A challenging hobby can pull us out of our comfort zones and we may accomplish things we never thought possible. This can be a great boost to mental health and self-confidence while helping to reduce anxiety and depression.
Meeting People
Making new friends is not always easy for the working adult. By indulging in a passion, new people with common interests can come into our lives. We can learn from others as well as having the satisfaction and helping and teaching them. My outside of work passion is playing jazz. I've made new friends and playing with other musicians is one of the great joys of my life. Socializing is very beneficial to physical and mental health and a great way to stave off depression.
While having a job you love is great, it's not possible for everyone. Having a passion to pursue outside of work is enjoyable without the pressure of earning a living. With the benefits to mental and emotional health, as well as the opportunity to meet and socialize with new people, having a passion is one of the best ways to stay sane in an often crazy world.
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