The desire to discover new passions is usually influenced by major
changes in life. Retirement, marriage, birth and divorce are all
life-changing events in which new passions may become nurtured.
Divorce can inspire a person to rediscover and pursue a dormant
passion that was not supported by their ex-spouse, like landscaping or
jogging, or discover a new passion. Not all people have activities
they are passionate about; yet they feel something is missing in their
lives. Activities that a divorcing couple was passionate about
together may not carry the same passion individually as it did when
they were together. In these cases, a person may be at loss about how
to discover new passions. Thankfully, discovering new passions is
possible. With a little openness, adventure and fun, any one can
discover new passions that bring joy to life.
Reflect Openly
A great way to discover new passions is to reflect openly. This takes
a relaxing approach and a willingness to listen to your body. Start by
doing a relaxing activity. This can be anything from yoga to enjoying
a quiet evening by the fireplace to taking a long walk at the beach.
While you relax, enjoy the silence. Ideas should come to you about
your passions, though you may need to redirect your thoughts
occasionally to passions (and not dinner plans!). Write down any ideas
that come to you. Any activity that you enjoy, from teaching to
painting to constructing paper clip necklaces, should be considered
passions at this point.
It’s An Adventure!
By being open with yourself, you can determine a few possible
passions. Once you have an idea of possible passions, the adventure of
establishing the passion into a viable career or hobby begins. The
following are some ways to pursue your passions:
Volunteer at anything. From volunteering at a food bank to enjoy
helping people, to volunteering at the library to pad your resume as
one step to becoming a librarian, or volunteering at the theater to
get free theater tickets as a theater buff, volunteering can open
possibilities to you.
Return to school. If you are making a huge career switch, returning to
school is a good option for establishing your passion. Taking classes
is also a great option for anyone pursuing a passion as a hobby.
Make your passions known. Finding social groups directed toward your
passion and sharing your new passion with friends can open a great
network for advancing your new career or hobby.
Practice your passion. Of course, dedicate as much time as possible to
your new passion. Practice makes perfect.
Have Fun!
The most important parts of discovering a passion is having fun for
the sheer joy of it. Whether you are pursuing a new career or learning
to paint, a passion is only a passion as long as you have fun pursuing
it. Through all of your investigation, make sure you leave time to let
loose and have fun. Check in with yourself throughout the discovery
process to see if you are having fun will help you determine if the
activity is a passion or something you think you should do.
Important Step to Divorce Recovery
Passions can inspire people to become the best possible version of
themselves. They can make life more enjoyable, and they can encourage
someone who is depressed to feel re-energized, and happy. Reconnecting to passions or discovering new
passions is an important step in divorce recovery, so take a little
time to explore and have fun with your passions.
About the Authors
Andra Brosh, Ph.D. and Allison Pescosolido, M.A. are the leading divorce recovery experts in Los Angeles. Founders of Divorce Detox, a proven program guaranteed to speed recovery through the divorce transition, Andra and Allison are certified grief recovery experts, and both hold advanced degrees in the field of psychology. Friends for over 20 years, these dynamic women treat the trauma of divorce and see divorce as an opportunity for personal growth and a better life; they are changing the face of divorce in our society. Visit www.divorcedetox.com (link below) to learn more about their programs and cutting-edge work.
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