A passion project.
Work that actually means something to her. Work that speaks to her values, her heart, and the parts of her that may have been quietly waiting for attention while she did what was responsible, practical, and expected.
When she told me, I felt a mix of excitement and recognition. And when I later shared the idea with a client, he lit up.
“I love that,” he said. “I want one.”
I think many of us do.
What Is a Passion Project?
A passion project isn’t necessarily a business or a full-time endeavor. It doesn’t have to replace your job or make money (though sometimes it does).
A passion project is something you do because it matters to you.
It’s work—or creative expression, service, learning, or building—that feels aligned with who you are and what you care about. It’s often the thing that:
Energizes you rather than drains you
Feels meaningful, even when it’s challenging
Pulls you into a state of flow where time disappears
Feels chosen, not obligated
How Do You Find Your Passion Project? This is the question I hear most often. The answer usually isn’t found by thinking harder—it’s found by remembering.
Here are a few places to look:
1. What Fired You Up as a Kid?
Before productivity, performance reviews, and practicality took over, what did you love?
Writing?
Building things?
Teaching?
Creating art?
Exploring, helping, questioning, organizing?
Those early interests often hold important clues.
2. When Do You Lose Track of Time?
Flow is a powerful signal. When you’re deeply engaged and time seems to disappear, you’re likely touching something meaningful.
Ask yourself:
What activities make me feel absorbed and alive?
What do I do even when no one is watching or paying me?
3. What Do You Care Deeply About?
Passion projects often sit at the intersection of interest and values.
- Justice
- Wellness
- Learning
- Creativity
- Community
- Nature
- Growth
What topics stir emotion in you? What issues do you feel drawn to speak about, fix, protect, or contribute to?
4. What Do People Come to You For?
Sometimes others see our strengths more clearly than we do.
What do people ask for your help with? What do they thank you for?
That may be pointing you toward something worth exploring.
Why Passion Projects Matter (More Than We Think)
Passion projects aren’t indulgent. They’re restorative.
From a mental health perspective, they:
Reduce burnout by reconnecting us to meaning
Increase joy and vitality
Strengthen identity beyond job titles
Provide a sense of purpose and agency
From a broader perspective, passion projects are how many meaningful contributions are born. They don’t come from obligation; they come from care.
When people engage in work that reflects their values and heart, the world benefits—not just the individual.
You Don’t Have to Quit Your Life to Start One
Here’s the most important part:
A passion project doesn’t have to be big, perfect, or fully formed.
It can start small.
An hour a week.
A class.
A volunteer role.
A creative experiment.
A conversation.
The goal isn’t to figure out the rest of your life.
The goal is to follow what feels alive now.
Also:
So many of us spend years doing what we should—being responsible, productive, and capable—while quietly ignoring what lights us up.
A passion project is an invitation to listen again.
Not to abandon who you’ve been, but to expand into who you still are becoming.
You don’t have to know exactly where it will lead.
You just have to start with what matters to you.
And that might be the most meaningful project of all.
Love,
Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist
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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com.