Is there something you’ve always wanted to do, but you’ve never been able to do it because time is holding you back? Passion projects are projects you’re passionate about. Maybe you’ve always wanted to build an aquarium, or ride a motorcycle, or learn an instrument or become a DJ, or grow plants, or be a part of helping at risk children… but you’ve never had the time. It’s time to put that excuse aside and get at it!
Passion projects can enhance relaxation, develop your creativity, and more. You can turn something you love to do into a reality. Here’s how to keep up with your passion projects even when you’re busy!
Commit to your project
Committing to a passion project is also about being true to yourself. There will be setbacks, but you have to continue to pursue them. Of course, if it gets to the point where you really don’t want to do it anymore because it’s causing too much stress and no joy, you can reconsider. But before you get to that point, give it your best shot. You may surprise yourself with your perseverance.
Example: If you’re starting a new fish tank, it will take lots of time and energy to get it right and you may even lose some fish. In the beginning, you constantly need to test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and pH levels and do daily water changes if anything is unbalanced. Once your tank completes its first cycle and has balanced itself, you can add plants and fish and truly begin to enjoy the work you put in. Now, you only need to do weekly water changes, and you can really begin to love your cool tank and pet fish.
Create short goals to reach along the way
Breaking your large goal into smaller goals is one great way to make this project work for you. Of course, you should have the end goal in mind, but setting and reaching little goals along the way allows you to keep moving forward. You can give your little goals deadlines, and in doing that, you’ll be creating an endgame for when you’ll have achieved your goal.
Example: If you’re learning to ride a motorcycle, you will need patience. Unless you’re some naturally gifted person, you’re not going to be able to take your bike for a spin right away. Having driven a manual car will help, but you’ll need to learn how to ease off the clutch while giving it a little gas and switching gears. Set a small goal like making it around the neighborhood, then across a busy street to the gas station, then finally, you can ride it confidently wherever you go.
Consider your time
Time is of the essence. Finding the time when you’re already busy is the most difficult part of working on your passion project. Make it a priority and find a time that works best for you. Maybe you’re an early bird, try working on it in the morning. Or perhaps you’re a night owl who can focus better in the evening. You have to give yourself time for this passion project to completely develop.
Example: If you want to play music or learn an instrument, it’s going to take time to get it right. If you want to become a DJ, learning how to use a CDJ is no simple task. You’ll need to dedicate time in which you can fully focus on creating beats, mixing one song and queuing the next. If you want to learn the violin, trumpet or saxophone, you have to find a time each day to practice, as consistent play is key to learning an instrument. Give yourself time and be patient with the outcome.
Plan your project out
Making a to-do list will help you plan your project out. It’s important to be in the moment because maybe you get a spark of inspiration one minute and decide now is a good time to get at it. Definitely do that. Also make a to-do list of everything you need to do to get this project done. If you’re really passionate about it, you’ll see it through.
Example: Say you want to start an indoor plant collection to improve air quality, reduce stress, and develop a symbiotic relationship (if you care for plants, they care for you). You can make a to-do list that consists of getting pots, soil, a watering bucket, fertilizer, a humidifier, a grow light, shelves, and tables to put them on, and finally, the plants. It can be expensive upfront, which is why you can create a list and split up getting the materials. Learning when and how to care for each house plant takes time, so stick to it even when some don’t make it.
Join DREAM in helping at risk children
You cannot change that there are 24 hours in a day, but you can make the most out of those 24 hours. You know you have to work, eat and sleep, but you should also do what you love while you’re awake. It will help you live your best life! If you’re passionate about helping at risk children in our community, joining DREAM is a great way to mentor them and help them reach their dreams. Contact us today to see how you can get involved!
