What’s the difference between a passion and a hobby? They can seem very similar — both are what you enjoy, what you spend a lot of time doing, and what you would do even if no one paid you. But, how do you know if you are a recreational blogger or if you should pursue writing full time? Or, if you love cooking meals for friends or if you should go to culinary school?
First, I have to say: if you are wondering if your interest is a passion or a hobby, take a moment and recognize how lucky you are to be in this predicament. The majority of people do not have such a strong interest in something and are struggling to find what they love. Whether your special talent remains a hobby or becomes your full-blown passion, you are lucky to have something you love.
This quick survey will help you figure out if your hobby should remain a hobby, or if you should start seriously considering changing careers and going after what you love. Be sure to record your answers so you can add up your points at the end.
Do I have a Passion? Or a hobby?
1. Do you have a special talent or interest that makes you happy and is an important part of who you are?
a. Definitely
b. I think so
c. No
2. How would you define your passion?
a. It is one of the biggest parts of my life and I am willing to make big sacrifices to learn more and succeed.
b. It is something I truly enjoy doing and it makes me happy.
c. I would like it more if my friends could do it with me.
d. It entertains me and keeps me busy.
3. How often do you exercise your passion in your life?
a. Everyday
b. Most days
c. Sometimes
d. Never
4. How many passions do you have?
a. 3 or more
b. 2
c. 1
d. None
5. Do you regularly challenge yourself and enjoy learning new things?
a. Yes
b. No
c. It depends
6. Do you enjoy showcasing your passion to others?
a. Yes
b. No
c. It depends
7. How do you like to spend your free time?
a. Relaxing and lounging
b. Starting new projects
c. Being social and trying new things
d. Researching, reading, or learning
8. Do you get jealous or annoyed when someone else has the same passion as you and is successful?
a. Yes
b. No
9. Could you spend hours reading and researching your passion?
a. Yes
b. No
10. Did you enjoy your passion as a child?
a. Yes
b. No
Now, tally up your points.
Points:
Question 1.
a: 3 points
b. 2 points
c. 1 point
Question 2:
a. 4 points
b. 3 points
c. 2 points
d. 1 point
Question 3:
a. 4 points
b. 3 points
c. 2 points
d. 0 points
Question 4:
a. 0 points
b. 1 point
c. 2 points
d. 0 points
Question 5:
a. 3 points
b. 1 point
c. 2 points
Question 6:
a. 3 points
b. 1 point
c. 2 points
Question 7:
a. 1 point
b. 3 points
c. 2 points
d. 3 points
Question 8:
a. 2 points
b. 1 point
Question 9:
a. 2 points
b. 1 point
Question 10:
a. 2 points
b. 1 point
17-28 points: You’re definitely passionate
There’s no question about it — you have some serious passion. You’re good at what you do and you love doing it. You always want to challenge yourself to learn more about your passion and become better. You understand the time and effort required to follow your passion and are willing to make some sacrifices along the way. Now, the next questions are: what will you do with this passion? Are you ready to follow your interest and see where it takes you? Do you want to switch careers or go back to school? What will you do now that you know you have a strong passion in your life?
8-17 points: You have a great hobby
You have a fulfilling activity to focus your energy on outside of work. It makes you happy and you enjoy doing it, but you also like to dabble in a bunch of other things. This interest doesn’t take up every free minute of your life, but it is certainly something you do when you have the time. You aren’t necessarily interested in making money from this hobby, you see it more as a fun way to relax and unwind.
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