Ask the Coach — Week 11 - Kerri Richardson

This is the column where, each week, I’ll be answering one website visitor’s question in hopes of supporting all visitors through shared (and likely, relevant) challenges, triumphs, and struggles.

Dear Kerri,

Is it too late for a 73-year-old to find her passion?

Signed,
Searching in Somerville

Dear Searching,

Too late? Never! As Barbara Sher said: “It’s only too late if you don’t start now.”

There’s lots of talk of people wanting to find their “passion” — that one thing in life that they’re really meant to do. But what often happens is they get so busy in pursuit of what “it” is, that they don’t see opportunities for fulfillment all around them.

Your passion can come in many different forms. Most think it’s only career related, but that’s far from the truth. We can be passionate about our work, yes, but we can also feel as strongly about our hobbies, family, pets, nature, volunteering, etc, etc, etc.

Take a moment right now and think about what you feel deeply connected to in your world. What topic do you “light up” about when discussed? Your kids? Grandkids? Animals? Church? Your community? A hobby? None, some, or all of the above?

If your grandkids are one of your passions, how about scheduling a weekly date with one or more, spending time together making memories. You could plan a different, inexpensive activity each week.

Is it animals? Consider volunteering at a humane, loving shelter and do your part to support animals yet to be adopted and the organizations that give them a temporary loving home.

Think about things you not only enjoy, but would also be proud to be a part of. Pay attention in your day to day and see when you feel your heart leap or your spirit soar. Jot down your findings to revisit and decide where you’d like to begin.

Also, be sure not to limit yourself to just one passion. This magnificent world of ours has so much to offer — it’s yours for the taking. When you feel fulfilled in lots of different ways, the pressure or desire to find your one, big passion fades pretty quickly, and you become acutely aware of the surplus of joy all around you.

Go get ’em!
Kerri
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