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10 Books That Can Help You Discover Your True Passion

MC Jobs Desk | August 30, 2025 / 17:59 IST
1/10
The Element by Sir Ken Robinson
The Element by Sir Ken Robinson
This book explains how people find the point where their natural talents and personal passions meet. Robinson shares examples of individuals who changed their lives by identifying and following what they love. It encourages readers to look beyond conventional ideas of success and discover what really gives them satisfaction and meaning. It also highlights why creativity and curiosity play an important role in shaping one’s future path.
2/10
What Colour Is Your Parachute? by Richard N. Bolles
What Colour Is Your Parachute? by Richard N. Bolles
This practical guide has helped many people reflect on their skills, interests, and values. It provides exercises and tools to understand personal strengths and how to use them in choosing a fulfilling career. Bolles encourages self-exploration before jumping into work opportunities. The book also explains how networking and real-world experiences can help in finding the right direction, making it a valuable resource for personal and professional growth.
3/10
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Through the story of Santiago, a young shepherd searching for his treasure, Coelho presents the idea that everyone has a personal journey or “personal legend” to follow. The novel encourages readers to listen to their hearts, face challenges, and stay determined in their pursuit of meaning. It shows how the search for passion often requires patience, faith, and courage. This timeless story inspires people to pursue dreams and not ignore their true calling.
4/10
Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
This book explores the Japanese concept of “Ikigai”, which means “reason for being”. It explains how a combination of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what can earn you a living can guide you towards your passion. The authors draw from Japanese traditions and real-life examples to help readers identify their Ikigai. It teaches balance and purpose as the key to a meaningful life.
5/10
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Written by a Holocaust survivor, this book reflects on the importance of finding meaning even in the most difficult circumstances. Frankl explains how purpose and passion can help people endure hardships. He introduces the idea of “logotherapy”, which focuses on living with meaning. The book guides readers to examine what gives their lives true value and how identifying purpose can help them move forward with strength and clarity.
6/10
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Gilbert encourages readers to embrace creativity and curiosity as ways to explore personal passions. She explains that fear often holds people back from pursuing what they love. Through stories and reflections, the book suggests that living a creative life does not always mean becoming an artist but simply being open to opportunities and ideas. It inspires readers to overcome doubts and discover paths that bring personal fulfilment and joy.
7/10
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Written by two Stanford professors, this book uses design thinking principles to help readers create a life guided by passion. It includes exercises to clarify goals, explore multiple career paths, and make decisions with confidence. The authors suggest that life is like a design project that can be reshaped and improved. It is especially useful for those uncertain about their direction and looking for a structured way to explore possibilities.
8/10
The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna
The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna
This book talks about the choice between doing what we feel we “should” do and what we truly “must” do. Elle Luna explains how choosing the path of “must” leads to discovering personal passion and inner satisfaction. With stories, reflections, and visual ideas, she guides readers to recognise when they are avoiding their true calling. It is a reminder that pursuing one’s passion may be challenging but is always worthwhile.
9/10
So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport
So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport
Cal Newport challenges the idea of “follow your passion” and instead argues that passion grows from developing rare and valuable skills. He explains how focusing on mastery and excellence can eventually lead to work that feels meaningful and enjoyable. The book also highlights the importance of patience, deliberate practice, and building expertise. Newport’s practical approach helps readers think differently about passion and how to cultivate it over time.
10/10
Finding Your Own North Star by Martha Beck
Finding Your Own North Star by Martha Beck
This book is designed to help readers listen to their inner voice and identify what truly matters to them. Martha Beck explains how societal expectations often lead people away from their real passions. With exercises and personal insights, she provides ways to reconnect with one’s natural desires and strengths. It encourages readers to move past doubts and external pressures to live a life aligned with their true purpose.

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