Embracing Your Passions: Work Isn't Everything in Life
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Chapter 1: Reassessing Priorities
As I remove my sweat-soaked boxing gloves and catch my breath, a powerful realization hits me. This moment is what drives me to rise at 6 AM, fills me with enthusiasm, and reminds me of the incredible thrill of being alive.
Even during my early weightlifting days, I never felt such fervor. After just a month of practicing Muay Thai, it has swiftly climbed to the forefront of my priorities. Activities like writing, which usually ignite my passion, have taken a back seat. Other commitments—my full-time job, social outings, dating, and chatting with friends—have become secondary considerations.
In a culture that often ties identity to work, I envision a rather unconventional self-introduction. Instead of saying, “I’m a full-time software engineer,” I might declare, “I’m a Muay Thai fighter and a writer focused on self-improvement. Coding is just something I do occasionally.”
You Alone Should Define Your Priorities
How would you respond if you knew you had only a year left to live? What if it were next month or, heaven forbid, tomorrow? Life is unpredictable, and while you have it, shouldn’t you take full ownership of it?
Confucius once said, “We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” So why let others—family, friends, or society—dictate your choices?
Of course, it’s wise to consider the advice of those who care about you and to follow societal norms to some extent. However, you possess the ultimate freedom to shape your own life. I’ve been pondering, “What do I truly want to achieve during my time on this planet?”
Being glued to a desk, sporting dark circles under my eyes just to increase my productivity metrics is not the answer. Nor is it wise to abandon all responsibilities in pursuit of fleeting pleasures. The solution lies in finding balance—my own balance.
Your balance will be unique, influenced by your personal preferences, experiences, and circumstances. Identify the activity that invigorates your very essence. Make it your “P0,” and protect it fiercely. No matter how challenging life becomes, this will anchor you to reality.
Your "P0" Evolves Over Time
When I first shed pounds and committed to fitness, weightlifting became my “P0.” Later, during a deep romantic connection, that relationship took precedence—until the heartbreak that followed nearly obliterated my sense of priority.
Last year, writing seized that top spot, only to be challenged by the pursuit of financial stability. Currently, Muay Thai holds that title, but it’s likely that something else will eventually take its place.
As you evolve and develop, so too will your priorities—but having priorities is essential. By determining your own priorities, you gain control over your choices, accountability for your life, and self-respect.
If your work is your greatest passion, it can certainly be your “P0.” Many thriving young entrepreneurs embody this sentiment. But if that’s not your case, it’s perfectly acceptable to elevate something else to your top priority—be it your health, family, hobbies, mental well-being, or even a quest for deeper understanding.
Whatever it may be, establish a priority and resist the urge to conform to societal pressures.
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