By Richard Huxley, ME.D, LSSBB, CEC

“Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress; working hard for something we love is called passion.” – Simon Sinek

There’s a profound difference between simply doing your job and living your purpose. When our work loses meaning, every task feels heavy. Every challenge feels personal. But when we’re connected to something we truly care about, that same hard work becomes fuel. Passion turns long hours into purpose, and challenges into chances to grow. Passion doesn’t remove the work; it transforms how we experience it.

As leaders, we have the privilege and responsibility to help others find that same spark, to connect what they do with why it matters. When people see meaning in their work, they don’t just show up; they rise up. The most motivated teams are the ones who feel their work has purpose.

And that starts with leaders who lead with passion, not pressure.

Reflection:
What drives you? What’s the “why” behind the work you do each day? Take a moment to rediscover the purpose that fuels your passion—because when your heart is in it, your leadership shines brighter than ever.