What is Your Intellectual Passion?

My intellectual passion is analyzing and problem-solving, especially when it involves helping others. For as long as I could remember, I enjoyed figuring things out, how they work, and how to fix them if they don’t work. I enjoy this in different areas, in both my work and at home.

When I think of analyzing and problem solving, I think of asking questions, researching, collecting information, processing information and applying different solutions until I find one that works. Sometimes solving problems is easier if you have a plan. Try listing possible solutions and then decide which solution is most feasible. Don’t give up if the first attempt to solve a problem fails.

The problem-solving area that I love to work with the most is technology. How did I come to realize this? Well, it all started when I took my first Fortran programming class in college, many years ago. I discovered flow-charting at that time, and how to program a computer. I have been fascinated with computers even since. I remember when I bought my first computer, which was a Commodore-64. I still have it in its original box. It’s stored in the attic, and I keep it as a reminder of how I felt when I entered that phase of my life. I bought it while attending my second year of college (yes, many years ago) and I still remember all the wonderful things it could do. I was literally fascinated by the music, games and cool programs that were available. The one I remember the most is a basketball game which I think was called One on One, with Dr. J and Larry Bird playing basketball. I remember there were some really cool Olympic games software programs too, and I was totally amazed at the graphics. That was the beginning of the spark that got me interested in computers.

Well, computers have come a long way since then, but let’s just say that when I discovered what computers could do, I knew I was destined the make computers part of my life forever. I have also always loved helping people, so the combination of using computers and helping others was something that always gave me a great deal of satisfaction.

I think passion is something that comes from the soul. It's not something you can learn from a book. You have to experience passion. In my case, I discovered that if you are passionate about problem-solving, it’s easier to find solutions. So I believe if you have a passion in what you do, you can be very successful. How do you channel passion? Part of it is just believing in yourself, having confidence in what you do, and recognizing what truly makes you happy. It’s also recognizing what makes you feel better and not being afraid to pursue it. Do you love to travel? Do you love cooking? Do you love sports? Do you love art? Whatever is it, make it a big part of your life. Better yet, if you can incorporate what you love into your job, you will be even more successful!

Write down a list of 10 things that make you happy. Then circle your favorite one. Is it something that is a big part of your life or just something you wish was a big part of your life? Whatever your passion is, and whatever industry, background, trade or skill that you choose, it’s probably something you have always loved doing. So be sure to do what you enjoy and if you can, make it a big part of your life. To me, the key to happiness is doing what you love.