What makes us successful? What makes us able to rise above ourselves? Passion. For what we do, for our profession. The most successful entrepreneurs are the epitome of this. People like Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Jack Ma are driven by passion and a great drive for action. They are not satisfied with what is already there, they want to create something new. Something groundbreaking. And not only today's big names rely on their passion. What about great entrepreneurs such as Walt Disney, who pursued their passion and shared it with the world. In other words: success and passion go hand in hand. It is therefore becoming increasingly important to find a job that suits you and your motivations. We will pay attention to that in this blog.

Loving your work, is that realistic?

A large majority of the working population in the Netherlands is somewhat satisfied with the work they do. Only a very small percentage dare to report it to keep his or her job. Is it realistic, to really love your work? We think so. However, this does require an adjustment in our thinking.

Hard work is not the key

Our society is characterized by measuring success based on working hours. In many industries, working overtime is accepted or even expected if you want to advance your career and be successful. Successful people and entrepreneurs become successful, among other things, because they take the time to think and think about the future. Constantly pushing to work harder and harder is not the solution to loving your work and becoming successful.

Money isn't the key either

Money is without a doubt one of the greatest motivators for people. Money determines today's society. And it is the main reason for accepting mediocrity. For accepting a job that you actually feel little love for. Just ask any random person: 'what would you do if money were not an issue'? The answer will almost always be: 'then I would do something that I really enjoy.' See the problem there! We work for the money, not to serve our interests. Lesson number 1 from many successful entrepreneurs is: don't chase the money!

Increase your passion

Do you remember Confusius' statement? “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” If hard work and money aren't the key to love and success, what is? We asked a number of successful entrepreneurs and professionals from our network that question. How can you learn to recognize and fuel your passion?

Challenge yourself

Everyday chores, meetings, planning...it's all part of it. But those are not the things that challenge you at work. In fact, they are more likely to be causes for frustration. When looking for a job that suits you, look beyond 'what you would like to do'. Look beyond functions, beyond training. Look at what you need to be truly challenged. That is largely the key to a job you love. Challenge is fun, it brings out the passion in you.

Go for content, not for display

Seeking a challenge in your work is therefore an important factor for success. By focusing on what drives you to move, you are not guided too much by public opinion. Everyone is eager to work for trendy brands such as Apple and Google, where working conditions are said to be top-notch. Yes, that may indeed apply to many people, but it is and remains a shop window. Companies always show their best side on recruitment websites and during presentations. Your motivation should be content, not the showcase of a company.

What motivates you?

Motivation and passion are close together. But, we often make the mistake of seeing passion as your 'dream'. Many boys dream all their lives of being a professional footballer. That's for their passion. Should you pursue it? Passion is more than just our big dream. For example, your intrinsic motivation is also a form of passion. What motivates you to work? Do you want to get better? Do you want to create work for others? Many personal motivations can fuel your passion.

Follow your talents

If you are good at something, it often becomes fun. Too many people are active in jobs where they have little or no use for their talent. And that talent, of course, does not only have to be substantive. Who knows, you may have a great talent for working in a team, where you are a key player in encouraging team spirit. Motivating others can also be a strong personal motivation and passion. Discovering your personal talents is therefore much more important than finding the course or position that should suit you on paper.

Dare to leave

You are actually not really satisfied with your current job, or with the company where you work. And yet you don't dare to take the step. Many people don't even dare to look around for fear of being noticed. If you look at the past of the most successful people who really followed their passion, it is characterized by a whole list of activities. They dare to leave when the match is no longer good.

Do you like your work? What motivates you? We are very curious about more tips to supplement this list with more ways to unleash the passion within yourself. Let us know!