Rediscovering Your Passion After Hardship or in the Midst of Grief
Life can throw us curveballs that we are often ill-prepared to catch. Hardships, loss, and grief can hit us like a tsunami, leaving us feeling disoriented and overwhelmed. For example, earlier this year, my team suffered a tragic loss when we were delivered the news that our teammate, Gabby, had suddenly passed. It was as if the wind had been knocked out of each of us individually, but also as a unit that had truly begun to grow together.
Months later, many of us struggle to reconcile how life continues even when the ground beneath us seems unsteady. Personally, as a team leader, losing Gabby is one of the most challenging things I've had to navigate, and in doing so, I often found myself reeling, attempting to reclaim the passion and love I had for the work we get to do every day.
In the wake of challenges, it can be easy to lose touch with the things that once brought us joy and purpose. However, what I know is that the human spirit is remarkably resilient, and rediscovering your passion after hardship or grief is not only possible but can be a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
The first step towards rediscovering your passion is to acknowledge your feelings. Grief, be it from the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any other form of hardship, is a complex and natural emotion. It's essential to give yourself permission to grieve and heal. Understand that it's perfectly normal to feel a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and even guilt. By acknowledging your feelings, you can work through them and pave the way for rediscovery. Grief and joy often dance together in the body. It's important to yield to the emotion that needs nurturing from moment to moment.
Reflect on Your Past Passions
After a period of grieving and reflection, it's important to start small and give yourself permission to experiment and explore. Take gradual steps to reconnect with your interests. Take some time to reflect on the activities and interests that used to bring you joy and fulfillment. What were your passions before? These past passions can serve as a roadmap for rediscovery. Whether painting, playing a musical instrument, cooking, gardening, or any other hobby, revisiting these interests can help rekindle your inner flame.
Engaging in activities that once brought you happiness can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort during challenging times.
Embrace New Experiences
While reconnecting with your previous passions can be incredibly rewarding, don't be afraid to embrace new experiences. Sometimes, hardships can lead to personal growth and a desire to explore different interests. Trying something new can be invigorating and may lead you to discover previously hidden talents and passions.
Remember to be kind and patient with yourself. Healing and rediscovering your passions can take time, and you may encounter setbacks.
Rediscovery is not a linear process. It's a journey that involves self-discovery, healing, and personal growth, but you can find your way back to the things that make life meaningful. You can emerge stronger, more resilient, and with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
You will embrace life again.