"Follow Your Passion" Night at The Oscars

Last night's Oscars were all about following your passion. Perhaps because my purpose is to help others find their ideal careers but all I heard on Oscar night were messages about following your dreams

Let’s see if you agree.

Here are some of my favorite “follow your passion” quotes:

• Best Original Score, Michael Giachinno - "I know there are kids out there that don't have that support system [that I had] so if you're out there and you're listening, listen to me:  If you want to be creative, get out there and do it.  It's not a waste of time.  Do it." 
• Best Sound Editing, Paul N.J. Ottoson - "Twenty-three years ago, I...sold everything I had to come and be part of what you guys do over here....So many people have [had] faith in me and gave me a shot, maybe when I don't [didn't] know I [had] earned it yet.  And thank you to all those people."

For those of you who need a push to take steps everyday toward your passion or who as parents want to show your children the path to a career filled with purpose, read these inspiring messages from the top winners of the evening:

• Best Actress, Sandra Bullock - "...to be an artist you had [have] to practice everyday." [advice from her mother]
• Best Actor, Jeff Bridges - "Thank you Mom and Dad for turning me onto such a groovy profession...They loved show biz so much and I feel an extension of them.  You know, this is honoring them as much as it is me."

You don't need to be in Hollywood films to follow your passion.  

You can start right where are you today by finding one thing you love about your job and expanding upon it.  If you love working with people then serve your clients and customers to the best of your abilities.  If you love solving problems then ask your boss what's keeping her up at night and brainstorm solutions.  

You don't have to be Oscar winning to make a difference but you do need to put forth your best efforts.  I think Special Effects Oscar winner (for the movie Avatar) Joe Letteri put it best, "And just remember, the world we live in is just as amazing as the one we created for you."  

What's your passion?  Do you wish you had more creativity in your career?  Share your thoughts and comments below.  I'm happy to help and would love your advice and ideas on following your passion too!

Photo courtesy of Oscar.go.com