Have you ever felt lost or uncertain about your direction in life, unsure of what truly excites you? Perhaps you’ve found yourself on a path that no longer feels fulfilling, but you lack clarity about what steps to take next. Many people in this position feel stuck, as if they’ve invested too much in their current path to change course. They might worry that exploring new passions is a luxury they can’t afford, fearing the potential financial instability or judgment from others. However, there’s a powerful tool that can help you navigate this uncertainty and unlock a future aligned with your authentic self: The Passion Interview.

The Passion Interview is not about landing your dream job (though it might help with that too!). It’s about embarking on a journey of self-discovery by tapping into a network of “passion experts”—individuals who are actively living and breathing their passions. Think of it as a way to expand your world view and challenge the status quo that’s holding you back.

Here’s why the Passion Interview is so powerful:

Unlocking New Voices and Perspectives

Imagine stepping into a room filled with people deeply engaged in their work and excited to share their stories. Each person brings a unique perspective, shaped by their individual experiences, challenges, and triumphs. These are the “new voices” that can challenge your assumptions and introduce you to possibilities you might never have considered. As you listen to their stories, you’re exposed to different ways of thinking, problem-solving, and creating value in the world. This exposure can be transformative, helping you to see your own potential in a new light.

The Power of Questions

Good questions are the lifeblood of the Passion Interview. They have the ability to unlock insights, reveal hidden desires, and inspire new ways of thinking. Think back to a time when someone asked you a question that shifted your perspective or helped you see something in a new way. That’s the power of a well-crafted question. In the context of the Passion Interview, your goal is to ask questions that help you understand:

• What are the different ways people are pursuing their passions?
• What challenges have they faced, and how have they overcome them?
• What brings them the most joy and fulfillment in their work?
• What advice would they give to someone just starting out?

Active Listening and the Unknown Unknowns

Active listening is crucial for getting the most out of your Passion Interviews. This means going beyond simply hearing the words someone is saying. It’s about being fully present in the conversation, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, and asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding. When you listen actively, you open yourself up to discovering “unknown unknowns”—those things you didn’t even know you didn’t know. These unexpected insights can spark breakthroughs and lead you down new and exciting paths.

Conducting Your Own Passion Interviews:

The beauty of the Passion Interview is its simplicity. You don’t need to be an expert interviewer or have a large network to get started. Here’s a basic framework:

Identify Your Interests: Start by brainstorming a list of topics, fields, or activities that pique your curiosity. Don’t overthink it—just let your interests guide you.

Find Your Passion Experts: Once you have a few interests in mind, think about individuals who are actively involved in those areas. These could be people you know personally, or individuals you admire from afar.

Reach Out and Connect: Craft a genuine and enthusiastic message expressing your interest in learning from them and engaging them in your passion project. You might be surprised by how willing people are to share their stories and insights.

Prepare Thought-Provoking Questions: Use the questions listed earlier as a starting point, and don’t be afraid to go off-script if something sparks your curiosity during the conversation.

Listen Actively and Take Notes: Be fully present during the conversation, ask clarifying questions, and jot down key takeaways and insights.

Follow Up and Express Gratitude: After the interview, send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and insights.

The Passion Interview is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process of exploration and discovery. As you continue to engage in these conversations, you’ll gain clarity about your own passions and develop the confidence to pursue them. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Start by scheduling a Passion Interview today, and see where it leads you.

Back in 2021, these interviews led me to write a book about reinvention!