Engineers lead a tough life that begins from engineering school and lasts throughout their lives as they progress professionally. Their nature of work demands precision, calculations, finesse, and innovation at all times. Their careers are fulfilling yet physically draining and time-consuming. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the daily work, the pressure of deadlines, and cut-throat competition, managing leadership roles, and fulfilling innovation demands, passion and purpose-two most essential elements- get lost along the way. An engineer at this point feels drained at all levels and finds himself in the middle of nowhere.
In this article, we’ll be discussing ways in which this situation can be improved.
Ways To Bring Passion And Purpose Back
Here are those few small steps that can exponentially help to incorporate passion and purpose to work.
1. Initiate Conversations
Communication is a key solution to so many problems we face in our daily lives. Engineers sometimes get too consumed by their work that they forget there’s a world outside of it. They become quiet over time because of directing all focus to their tasks. This silence is a red flag.
We recommend you initiate conversations with coworkers and people outside of work, talk about what matters, let it all out that’s been gestating inside your head and heart. Listen to what others have to say, exchange ideas, reflect on small things. Talk about innovations as an aspiration rather than as a tiresome venture. This way, you speak and hear various narratives that shake you when you begin losing passion and forgetting your purpose.
2. Read On Success Stories
People like Einstein, Newton, Eddison, Graham Bell, Steve Jobs, and even the Colonel who started KFC are people you need to read up on. These aren’t mere names but are timeless success stories that evolved from the dark pits of failures. Keeping in mind how these guys rose from the ashes will keep you going even when you lose sight of your purpose and feel yourself lurking in mediocrity. Who knows, you could be the next big success tale for centuries to come?
3. Spend Time With Nature
We strongly recommend you to get out of the labs and workspaces once in a while and go sit outside the office gardens surrounded by nature. Observe the air, sky, clouds, the sun, the moon, and any wonder of nature you can think of. You’ll realize that everything is following its purpose and moving in harmony with others.
That kind of reflection helps you break toxic thoughts that make you feel low. Know that nothing is mediocre. You aren’t either. Just like the stars, the moon, and the sun, you were also born to fulfill greater purposes in life.
4. Engage in Positive Self-Talk and Self-Love
Consciously work on developing a habit of talking to yourself for at least 15 minutes every morning after you wake up. Look back at your achievements in school and all that you have gained professionally over time. Pat yourself on the back for coming so far. Give yourself the credit for always rising high, doing good academically, and standing where you are today.
Try to recall why you became an engineer. Recall that purpose and passion you held to get into the engineering school. And remember all of it. Keep telling yourself the same things the moment you feel passion and purpose disappearing from your life.
5. Consult A Coach
There is absolutely nothing wrong with reaching out for professional help. An engineer career coach can help you tremendously. A coach helps to bring out your inner feelings you’ve been suppressing for too long as you live through the challenges each day. They help you recognize your highest potential you’ve been subconsciously underestimating. A coach enables you to identify your goals and things that motivate you. They help you realize your passion points and work with you to form a roadmap to achieving your goals.
The Bottom Line
Passion and purpose are key drivers of motivation, productivity, and success. Losing them takes a massive toll on your personal and professional life, but know that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Small, consistent practices like the ones mentioned above can get you started and even take you places. Just don’t give up. Keep Moving.
