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Passion to Fruition

By: Paul Grubesic


Every one of us carries passions, those inner sparks that tug at our attention and whisper that we are meant for something more. But passion alone doesn’t guarantee progress. The real question becomes: How do we transform passion into reality, and who do we allow to walk with us on that journey?


Webster defines passion as an intense desire or enthusiasm for something. The Bible describes it as an intense, consuming longing directed toward a specific purpose. Spiritually, passion is the internal fire that motivates, energizes, and propels us toward the calling placed on our lives. Yet even with these definitions, many still struggle with the same challenge: Where does that fire come from, how do we harness it, and how do we sustain it when life becomes heavy?



The answer often lies in a combination of conviction, mentorship / trusted confidants, and—perhaps most importantly—being coachable. Passion without conviction lacks direction. Passion without wise counsel lacks grounding. Passion without coach-ability lacks growth. When these elements work together, they form the foundation that allows passion to unfold into purpose.


Understanding these components requires intentional reflection. Conviction is the anchor—your unwavering belief in the value of your passion. Mentors and trusted confidants serve as mirrors, sound boards, and guides who help refine your vision. Coachability is the humility to receive guidance, correction, and wisdom without allowing ego to interfere. When these three elements align, passion becomes more than a feeling; it becomes a disciplined pursuit.


Interestingly, this framework mirrors what many in the coaching world call the “coaching sandwich.” This model consists of three layers:


  • Praise – the top slice of bread

  • Constructive Feedback – the meat

  • Encouragement – the bottom slice of bread


When applied to personal growth, these layers take on deeper meaning.


Praise: The Voice of Your Inner Belief


Praise must begin internally to have merit. As it truly doesn’t matter what the chatter of the outside world says. This is yours and looking inside allows it to be owned.  It is the positive, affirming voice that reminds you of your strengths, your worth, and your potential. To cultivate passion, you must first remove internal obstacles, fear, doubt, past conditioning—that cloud your self-belief. Praise is not arrogance; it is acknowledgment of the gifts within you.  Once this is mastered and you allow yourself to “get out of your own way”, the doors to success open without you twisting the handle. 


Constructive Feedback: The Refining Fire


Constructive feedback must come from those you trust—people who genuinely have your best interest at heart. These individuals help sharpen your vision, challenge your blind spots, and offer perspective you cannot gain alone.  There is a reason that Head Coaches have a bench coach or a co-coach, a second set of eyes to observe and give feedback.  Their role is not to discourage but to refine, ensuring your passion grows in the right direction.  In many instances their encouragement and clarity set the tone for reassurance that the path you are creating. 


Encouragement: The Fuel That Sustains You


Encouragement is most powerful when it comes from within. External encouragement is helpful, but internal encouragement is sustaining. It is the quiet resilience that keeps you moving when progress feels slow.  Ask yourself, are you coachable ?  Do you say those stand-offish sentences (“yeah, I know”, “it was not my fault”, etc…) that push away the why and how that is needed for your passion to come to fruition.  Encourage yourself to see this true guidance, which is the fuel that sustains. It is a reminder that passion is not a moment, it is an intense journey.


It is a reminder that passion is not a moment, it is an intense journey.


FAQs


  1. How do I know if my passion is truly part of my purpose?

    Passion tied to purpose is often marked by conviction and consistency. It’s something that continues to call you forward even when it’s challenging, requires growth, and demands discipline—not just excitement.


  2. Why is coach-ability so important in personal growth?

    Coach-ability allows passion to evolve. Without openness to feedback and guidance, passion can become stagnant or misdirected. Being coachable creates space for refinement, maturity, and long-term impact.


  3. What role do mentors and trusted confidants play in sustaining passion?

    Mentors and trusted confidants provide perspective you cannot see on your own. They help challenge blind spots, reinforce conviction, and offer clarity when emotions or uncertainty cloud direction.


PAUL GRUBESIC

Author, Mentor and Ambassador for Self-empowerment

912-228-6741



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