Episode #206 Suffer For Something

Three Problems

• We often lose interest in our passions if they are motivated by external circumstances.
• Passions focused on possessions and positions are unsustainable.
• Misplaced passion leads to isolation and idolatry.

Seven Principles

• Passion is defined as something we are willing to suffer for.
• Everything that doesn’t break our heart helps to clarify what does.
• Participation is often a prerequisite to passion.
• We are not being asked to suffer for everything but only for something.
• The most meaningful communities are composed of people sharing a common passion.
• There is only one legitimate passion, and that is people.
• When our interests and passions merge, we can create a cohesive and congruent life.

Three Practices

• When starting a business or leading a company, decide “Why do we exist?”
• To identify your passions, consider “What breaks my heart?”
• Explore the “Why?” behind your hobbies.