Follow your passion?

by Jack Warren, Top Coach editor and host

Proverbs 19:2 says, “Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.”

For a very long time we have been told to follow our passion. And in the age of the internet and new media this message has been conveyed loud and often and in every flavor you can imagine. As a simple rallying cry or t-shirt slogan, this would seem to be sound enough advice, but to paraphrase the wise King Solomon, “Hey, buddy, you might want to slow your roll or you’re going to end up somewhere you didn’t want to go.”

I’m not here to rain on anyone’s parade. Top Coach is a great example of my own personal passion. Anyone who’s had a coaching or consulting session with me understands that one of the things we do is to try to identify your passion. However, as Solomon says, “Desire without knowledge is not good.”

So, yes, identify and follow a passion. However, make sure that right up front you do your homework. Before you jump into a new venture, research all of the variables that go into it. In other words, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into.

Secondly, once you’ve chosen your course, ensure efficiency and effectiveness by learning. Use all the resources at hand to learn the various aspects of your desired course. It couldn’t be easier these days with conventions, clinics, books, videos, websites, podcasts, classes, and more. And listen closely to your mentors! They will help you channel that passion so that you end up on a true course to your desired destination.

The bottom line is, yes, follow your passion, but do your best to keep your knowledge on a level with your desire.

Jack is available to speak to your team or organization or at your next function. He also provides individual and organizational coaching and consulting. You can get more information on these services at Jack’s professional services site, JackWWarren.com.