What are you passionate about?

People ask me all the time, what separates an average candidate from an exceptional candidate? For people in transition, I am commonly asked about factors relating to job search success. I am not sure I fully have an answer, but I found an article that offered a few clues.

9 Things Truly Passionate People Do Differently - by Dr. Travis Bradberry

The list is interesting, but I want to share two sentences from the article that help define the premise:

"Passion is the difference between playing the piano and being a pianist; it’s who you are, not just what you do. Passion makes you leap out of bed in the morning, eager to start your day."

Here is the list:

1. Passionate people are obsessed. The author is clear to point out that this is not in the OCD way.
2. They don't waste time.  The author points out that you won't find these people wandering around a park all afternoon playing Pokemon Go.
3. They're optimistic.  There is total belief that they will achieve their goal.
4. They're early risers.  Simply put, they want to get started.
5. They're willing to take big risks. They are willing to risk it all.
6. They have only one speed - full tilt. They go at this speed until they succeed (or crash).
7. They talk about their passions all the time. There is no separation between their passion and who they are.
8. They're highly excitable. Note - this is about one or two things . . . . . that they are passionate about.
9. They're all about their work. Their work is who they are . . . . . no need to worry about work/life balance (it doesn't need to exist).

There are clues in the full article that help answer the questions often asked of me.  That said - may you find (positive) passion in your life!