Author and activist Isabel Allende discusses women, creativity, the definition of feminism — and, of course, passion — in this talk.

“I think the most important thing in life is to just go on and find something that you’re passionate about, find something that you love, and fight for that. And not have anybody take that away from you. You can know your limits. But never, ever stop trying to break them. We are stronger for the things we face.”

Kyle Maynard, born without arms or legs, fought his first MMA match in 2009. Owns his own gym, has done 100s of public speaking events and has written a book. He’ll change your definition of “disability” forever.

http://www.hulu.com/watch/170590/a-fighting-chance

Public speaking is a HUGE passion of mine! Going to Toastmasters meetings & getting the experience of speaking – while having butterflies – was the BIG GIANT step that is paying off big-time! And attending Toastmasters speech contests has turned out to be the best way for audience members to recommend/request me for future speaking events.

If you have a passion, dive in – go all the way – and go as fast as you can!

If you’re not energized about what you’re doing, you simply will not work as hard at it – period! And, worse, you’re letting the people around you think that living half-a-life is OK. It’s not OK. Passion brings out the best in you. AND, it brings out the best in the people around you.

Coffeehouse employee conversation:

Friends of barista, “How’s it going?”

Barista, “I’m SO bored!”

How could anyone ever be bored?

Frustrated with your job?
Don’t know how to change your life?
In an unsatisfying relationship?
Physically tired?
Miss your dog?

“Being bored is a clear indication that you aren’t even close to following your passion!”