Lead With Passion

As I grow in my career, I find it’s easier to spot when people don’t have their heart in what they do. Passion drives people – and when they don’t care, it shows. One of my favorite lines I’ve heard my boss say, “I can teach someone a skill. I can’t teach them to be passionate.“

The Impact

When you truly love what you do, it comes naturally and the energy you radiate touches those around you. I’ve sat in on quite a few webinars and virtual events due to COVID. Some have been truly inspiring, while others, not so much. Passionate people get excited about what they’re working on and they’re not afraid to share it with others. Especially those who share the same mind set.

I recently attended a panel with executives from large, well-known agencies. They barely shared any information with the audience asking questions and made everything a secret. Following the panel was a presentation given by another mid-size agency’s Chief Growth Officer. It was perhaps the best presentation I’ve ever witnessed. He was honest, passionate and excited about what they accomplished – with a plan to surpass already impressive results from the previous year. He even shared their internal process documents to help other agencies.

The Power

If I don’t enjoy something, I tend to be bad at it. Like soccer, for example. I’m too competitive of a person to be bad at things, so when that’s the case I avoid it at all costs. I think this holds true for those who are in the wrong career path. If you’re doing it for the wrong reasons, reevaluate. We spend a lot of our time at work, it should be something we enjoy and get excited about. You have the choice to become the best at what you do. Passion should drive you.

The advertising industry has a ton of resources to keep you inspired. I’ve listed a handful below that I personally enjoy:

You’re reading it – https://arianaduran.com/

AdAge – Articles (2 for free per month)

AdWeek – Articles & Wednesday #AdweekChat

Hey Whipple, Squeeze This – Book

Hegarty on Advertising – Book

Ad 2 Orlando – Organization for younger advertising professionals

AAF Orlando – Parent organization of Ad 2 Orlando for advertising professionals

The Result

Think about your favorite song or piece of art. There’s a reason it’s so good. Ultimately, your work will reflect your level of passion. When your heart isn’t in it, your work will be mediocre. Mistakes happen, and that’s ok – we’re human, but care enough to never make the mistake twice. Let passion lead you and your best work will follow.