Create A Positive Environment

In order to pursue your passion, it can really help to develop a positive environment around you. In particular, get rid of drains, things that suck the life out of you.

That could mean removing certain people from your life, leaving jobs that take everything from you and give nothing in return, or moving into a different living arrangement that doesn't constantly cause you stress.

Now, that's not to say that everything has to be perfect before you start on your journey, but it definitely helps to get rid of as many negative things as possible. I've seen people completely drained after a long day and they have nothing left to give to their passions. What are the chances that whatever strength they are able to muster will allow them to build anything more than a small hobby?

I know people who can't possibly think about working on something they love because they have to take care of everyone else's problems. These people have good intentions, but without the ability to say "no" to things, they leave nothing for themselves.

How can I advise someone to start thinking creatively about life, when all they want to do is collapse on the couch and curl up into a ball? 

It isn't a great way to live, and it sure isn't conducive to finding or following your passion.

There are big changes like I mentioned, but you can also look at smaller changes that affect your daily work. When I'm trying to focus on my passions on a day-to-day basis, I do a few things: 

  • I try to find a comfortable place at that time. One day my home might be it, other days I need to move to another space because I'm just too stressed with chores and other things I need to do around the apartment. I also have standard places I go to when I look for inspiration. One place is never enough.
  • I remove obstacles. Whether that's physical such as a crowded desk or mental like a crowded mind, obstacles prevent you from really enjoying what you're doing. If you're constantly looking for more space to work for example, maybe it's time to look at rearranging your furniture or keeping these new requirements in mind next time you move.
  • I wait until I'm ready to work. One thing I've found is that when I'm forcing myself to work on something I'm passionate about, it's not because I actually don't like it, it's usually because I'm not in the mood right then. And that's ok. Working on your passions isn't all fun and games all the time.

There are a number of other things that could be included to help create a positive environment, but these are the things that I make sure to do every time.

The best part is that when I do these things, I have more energy and a more positive outlook, which provides me with creative solutions to whatever I'm working on.

What are your thoughts on creating a positive environment? 

- Ryan