How Does Passion Impact Success?

Workplace Buzz on March 8, 2010 11:33 AM

How does passion about what we do effect our job performance?

In the case of six-time Canadian champion figure skater, Joannie Rochette, passion is golden even in times of great adversity.

If you followed the Olympics, you’re familiar with Rochette’s story. She’s the figure skater whose supportive and loving mom, Therese Rochette, 55, had a massive heart attack and died after arriving in Vancouver just four days before she was to make her Olympic debut.

When I heard her story, I thought there was no way I could have gone to work after such an unthinkable tragedy. I’m sure most of us would feel that way.

Not only did Rochette decide to skate as scheduled, but she executed a nearly flawless performance, earning a bronze medal for herself and her country. Triumphing in the face of great personal hardship, she created a career-changing moment.

Curious about how she did it, I scoured the web and found my answer under the FAQs on Rochette’s website.

When asked what personal quality she is most proud of, Rochette replied, “I am passionate and always persevere.” She was not kidding.

No matter what occupation we choose, how do we set ourselves up for success? While our answers to this question will depend on our personal definition of success, I think Rochette has beautifully demonstrated one such way.

Colleen O’Brien of Chicago recently earned a Master of Arts degree in counseling and organizational psychology. She is currently an independent contractor for Perspectives, Ltd., and previously worked as an immigration paralegal for various attorneys, mostly women.

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