Protect your Spark when the world is dark

Dear Passion Seeker, how are you? No, I mean, really, how are you?

Lately, I’ve been hearing the same question over and over: How do keep investing in my passion when the world is so heavy?

I get it, and I feel it too. Some mornings, the headlines are so grim that it feels wrong to get excited about your project, your art, or getting back into "beginner mode" to try something new. But, I do believe this is exactly when our passionsmatter most.

I don't claim to know how to fix the world (I truly wish I did) but there are strategies I can give you to do more of what you love, even when the world feels too dark to try. 

1. Darkness doesn't get to decide

It’s easy to believe we have to choose one feeling. I've had my days recently where I didn't know if I had the energy to "hold space" for competing emotions. Am I devastated by what’s happening in the world, or joyful about the work I love? Should I feel ashamed that I'm not doing more to help others? Guilty that I need (and want) to focus on my work? I've realized that life isn’t that tidy; you can be heartbroken and find satisfaction (or even relief) in painting. You can worry for the future and use that to activate your volunteering. You can sob at the news, but still laugh with the team you love to lead. Don’t hide your spark out of guilt, don't stop your art because you think it can't possibly help. Above all, don't let darkness decide your next step. 

2. Your passions = generosity

When you do what you love, you don’t just lift yourself up, you bring a different energy and impact for others. In my book, Born to Buzz, I share many stories of Passion Seekers who are proving this, day in, day out. Passion brings you alive in the way you contribute ideas at work, the patience you bring at home, or the care you give to your community. Think of it as a counterbalance: the world is heavy, but your light restores some balance. Ask yourself today: What’s one thing I can do that brings me alive — for me, or for someone else?

3. Protect the spark 

Yes, stay informed, be a good citizen, care for others. But endless scrolling through dark news doesn’t help you or anyone else. Decide for yourself what “informed” means, and notice when you've crossed into overload or autopilot. A simple mantra to try: “Protect the spark.” Repeat it when you catch yourself doom-scrolling. Protect your spark by turning to something that renews you instead. 

Laura

Founder, Passion Collective