Crafting a Passion-Centered Career: Blending Interests At Work
Published 11 December 2024
(In Ep #0 of the Professionall Pathways Podcast | Cal’s Journey into Teacher Education)
“One of my first jobs after graduation was working for a company that created online world language curricula for K–12. I was applying to jobs on a Friday afternoon and was about to call it quits for the weekend and I saw one posting for a project manager position for this company. Project management was something I found to be so enjoyable, so I ended up being a project manager for an elementary-level Spanish textbook. I worked with native speakers to create audio for all the activities, and the best part of this job was that I really found myself thriving in getting to play the project manager. Being that checkpoint where I get to talk to everyone on the team to create a really awesome final product was really satisfying and gratifying work.”
For many professionals, the journey to finding a fulfilling career can feel like assembling a puzzle without all the pieces in sight. It’s not uncommon to believe that your passions and professional life must exist in separate realms. However, discovering a career that combines multiple interests is not only possible—–it’s deeply rewarding. The key lies in exploration, trying new things, and being open to growth opportunities.
This type of career fulfillment doesn’t happen by accident. It often requires experimentation, stepping into new roles, and sometimes taking risks. For many educators, pursuing side projects, consulting roles, or leadership opportunities can open unexpected doors. A music teacher might find joy in leading school musicals, blending teaching with theatrical passion. A science teacher could contribute to a community conservation project, combining environmental advocacy with education.
One of the most exciting aspects of building a multifaceted career is that it allows you to bring your whole self to the table. You’re not just “an educator” or “a manager.” You’re a creative thinker, a problem solver, and a lifelong learner. These roles don’t exist in isolation; they form a tapestry of your professional identity.
Incorporating multiple passions into your career also benefits others. Your enthusiasm for your work is contagious, inspiring colleagues and students alike. It shows the next generation that careers don’t have to be one-dimensional—–that it’s possible to follow a non-linear path and create a fulfilling life that reflects all aspects of your personality.
John Dewey's philosophy of experiential education highlights the importance of pursuing work that integrates multiple dimensions of a person's abilities and interests. In Experience and Education (1938), Dewey states, “The most significant kind of growth is not merely the accumulation of experience, but the transformation of experience into something richer and more significant.” This concept applies directly to the idea of discovering professional roles that resonate with one's diverse passions. Engaging in work that is meaningful and multifaceted allows individuals to grow not only in their skill set but also in their sense of fulfillment and purpose (Dewey, 1938).
Similarly, Edward Deci and Richard Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory (SDT) underscores how intrinsic motivation is driven by autonomy, competence, and relatedness. They argue, “People will be most motivated and satisfied when they find activities that align with their personal values and interests” (Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Determination in Human Behavior, 1985). Combining multiple passions into a career can enhance this alignment, making work both productive and deeply rewarding. For instance, individuals who integrate creativity, collaboration, and organizational skills may find project management particularly fulfilling. This alignment not only boosts job satisfaction but also fosters resilience when facing workplace challenges (Deci & Ryan, 1985).
Five Practical Tips for Combining Passions in Your Career
Explore Diverse Opportunities: Take on side projects, volunteer roles, or freelance opportunities that align with your interests. This exploration can reveal unexpected ways to merge your passions.
Leverage Professional Development: Attend workshops or conferences in areas beyond your primary field. For example, an educator with an interest in technology might explore ed-tech training to merge teaching with digital tools.
Reflect on Past Roles: Look back at your career and identify projects or tasks that brought you the most joy. Seek out opportunities that incorporate those elements into your current role.
Network Across Disciplines: Engage with professionals in different fields. Their experiences and advice can inspire new ways to combine your skills and passions.
Embrace Experimentation: Be open to trying new things, even if they seem outside your comfort zone. You might discover a hidden talent or interest that leads to a more fulfilling career path.
Combining multiple passions into a career may feel daunting, but it’s one of the most rewarding journeys you can take. By stepping into new opportunities and exploring the intersection of your interests, you can create a professional life that’s uniquely your own. Not only does this approach lead to greater job satisfaction, but it also demonstrates to others—–students, colleagues, and peers—that passion-driven work is both possible and valuable.
Discussion Question
What are some passions or interests you’ve been able to incorporate into your career, and how did they enhance your professional experience?
Related Posts
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Dewey, J. (1938). Experience and education. Internet Archive. Retrieved from https://archive.org/details/experienceeducat0000john
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer Science & Business Media.
