Sewing to Slow Cookers: Why Passion Projects Make Us Better at Work
- Amanda Lillemoe
- Oct 25, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 30, 2024
Ever feel like you’re searching for something that fills you up in ways nothing else can? For me, it’s all about creativity. Specifically, I love to sew—which is kind of hilarious because sewing demands a knack for math, and let’s just say math, and I have agreed to see other people. Therefore, I sew from my heart rather than following a pattern.
Here’s the deal—when I take the time to feed my creative side, it spills over into everything else. I’m a better professional, a more engaged parent, and slightly less likely to lose my mind in general.
And it’s not just me! I’m inspired by people who channel their passions outside work.
These pursuits may seem like simple hobbies, but they often hold surprising value for work life. Here’s a peek at some of my favorite passion-fueled people.
Meet the Passionate People
The Green Thumb Marketer
A friend of mine thrives in marketing analytics by day, balancing data and dashboards. But on weekends? She’s knee-deep in dirt, tending to a flower garden so lush it won blue ribbons at the state fair this year! And it’s not just a hobby—she and a friend have even turned it into a blooming side hustle.
Check out their Instagram.
The Slow-Cooking HR VP
This VP of HR is a pro at managing policies and benefits, but after hours, she becomes a slow-cooker YouTube star. From perfecting pot roasts to sharing life advice, her videos inspire people to find comfort food for both the stomach and the soul. HR policies and pot roast? She’s got it all simmering. Check out her awesome YouTube.
The Woodworking Electrician
My brother’s a master electrician, keeping the lights on for everyone else. But his real passion? Faith, family, and woodworking. His latest masterpiece: a full over-the-road camper, built from scratch! It’s like HGTV meets Sunday service meets the open road.
Hot Commodity Youth Sports Coach
My husband rocks commodity sales during the week, but come the weekend, he’s transformed into the world’s most dedicated youth sports coach. He’s out there with more energy than the kids, possibly fueled by coffee and sheer determination.
How Managers Can Support Passionate Pursuits
As a Manager, Get Curious: Discover what makes your team tick. Maybe a love for photography could refresh your marketing visuals, or a baking hobby could lead to a team cookie workshop. And if all else fails, grab some Oreos and debate the best flavor!
Celebrate Each Other: Carve out time to share the quirky, cool things everyone does outside of work. From knitting projects to Netflix marathons, those moments build team bonds.
Protect Your Me Time: Defend it like the last slice of pizza. When you’re fulfilled personally, you bring more energy to work. (Probably science... I’m no scientist.)
Invest in Passion as Much as Profession: Show employees you’re invested in their whole selves, not just the 'work version.' Imagine sponsoring an art class alongside that marketing workshop or supporting a woodworking hobby with tickets to a local craft fair. Even a team flower-arranging activity could unlock new creativity and camaraderie. You never know what spark might lead to something amazing!
What About You?
What’s your passion? Share it, celebrate it, and embrace it!
If you’re still figuring it out, that’s perfectly fine too. Honestly, I sometimes find myself lost in scrolling through Instagram. Ha! Just remember to give yourself grace and do your best.
Sew Long For Now
Now, it’s time for me to return to my sewing table, where I’m working on some (questionably authentic) poodle skirts for Halloween. Stay tuned for the big reveal—it’s sure to be a real stitch!
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