Rediscovering Purpose: From External Validation to Passion-Driven Pursuits

The journey from seeking external validation to discovering intrinsic motivation reveals critical insights about personal purpose. Initially, achievements like a baseball scholarship and a high-paying job may impress others but may not align with true passions or long-term fulfillment. Over time, the lack of innate energy for one's career path can lead to disillusionment, particularly in fields driven by financial gain, where genuine interest in the craft plays a crucial role in sustained success. The distinction between caring deeply about a profession and merely wanting to appear impressive highlights the tension between societal expectations and personal aspirations. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompts a reevaluation, creating space to explore activities that elicit genuine enthusiasm, such as writing. This shift illustrates the transformative power of engaging in pursuits that resonate with one's inner calling, revealing a path to rediscovering purpose that is driven not by external validation but by passion and obsession for one's craft.