That was Edison. In fact, it was the 1% inspiration or the sudden burst of creativity that gave meaning to the 99% perspiration or hard work. But why did that insight come to Edison and not to other contemporary scientists? Why did the idea of salt satyagraha that finally led to Indian independence come to Gandhi and not to the rest?
Think of Archimedes who ran out of his bathtub having discovered the principle of buoyancy. What made these people special? Why did these breakthroughs and skills come to them and not to the others? Among the millions that have walked the earth, only a few names are spoken of and remembered for long. What is it that led them to achieve?
It was commitment, hard work, determination and, most importantly, passion. It was the passion from within that drove them. When you are passionate about something, all these qualities naturally follow suit. If you are capable of being passionate about something then success is not far away. You can reach for the stars, the moon or whatever, may be the whole universe! You may lose money, friends, name and fame, all securities but if only you kept alive the flame of passion, you will rise like the phoenix.
Mahabharata narrates that when young Arjuna was asked of life’s ambition, he beamed with pride and declared, “I want to be the best archer the world has ever seen or will see.” When asked why, he said, “Because I love to fly on the tip of my arrow.” The Wright brothers were passionate to fly, to go against gravity. These are the stories of extraordinary men and women.
Ask the ordinary. What would be their story? I want to become a doctor or software professional. But why? It gives me lots of money. Well, what would you do with all that money? Enjoy life! Everyday. If possible, every hour. How ordinary!
Making a living and ‘having fun’ has become the motive behind having a career rather than the passion or the drive to make a difference or leave a legacy. Often, the ordinary is confused with the ultimate. The motive behind choosing a profession is how easily one can make a quick buck and how lucrative it will be.
If you are passionate, you will be focussed and will know the exact motive behind your actions. When you work with passion, naturally you’ll be motivated and driven. You will even be willing to go the extra mile without much prodding from outside sources. There will be a purpose to your existence. Your life will be organised and you will have access to abundant energy. A passionate person is naturally progressive and derives greater fulfillment in life. Every human being is creative and intelligent. As a result, people would be drawn to your company and will place greater trust in your words. Your prayers will immediately be answered and grace will flood your life.
So get set and kick up some passion!
