Obviously some clarification needs to be right up front. There are multiple definitions and representations of the word daemon. The Latin daemon is looked upon as a genius, or guardian spirit. From Greek mythology we find it representing a god, or protective spirit. Plato saw the word as synonymous to one that is all knowing and wise. What I’m running with in terms of this article is a viewpoint from author Seth Godin on what our inner-daemon represents which seems to encompass much of the spirit of these other historical examples.
Seth sees our inner-daemon representing the artist (in the greater sense of the word) inside of us, our source of “great ideas, groundbreaking insights, generosity, love, connection and kindness.” That’s quite a list, and at the heart of what I’m trying to convey to you as far as pursuing your inner-daemon is concerned.
The Problem
Follow your passion – easily a 21st Century mantra. Jobs certainly brought this to the forefront not to mention there are a present around 1300 business books centered on the importance of passion in your work available on Amazon. But statistics continue to show that for most, this quest of living your passion seems to be a seriously difficult and for many “questionable” path to pursue with responsibilities and financial obligations looming over everything. Yet, I have little to no doubt that right along with those feelings of hesitation in this area are thoughts of the seemingly pure logic of bringing what one is seriously passionate about into their work-structure. Given the chance, who would say no to this? So the inimitable pursuit of passion mantra now seems to take on a bit of an oxymoron status – a self-contradictory proposition. What does one do?
The Solution
Put your focus on pursuing your inner-daemon as I explained it in the opening paragraphs as opposed to simply “your passion.” To begin with, it will help to redefine your perception of what that passion actually represents. I promise you more times than not it’s far greater than a one or two word phrase, as in I want to be a…fill in the blank.
Secondly, because your inner-daemon represents “all” of your personal attributes, focusing on them will lend to smarter decisions on what to do in the interim of your pursuits. Your “in the moment” job choices will be based more on your immediate strengths and interests (the total artist inside of you) rather than the “I’ll do anything to get there” mindset.
Thirdly, because you’re more centered on following your strengths and interests, you may discover an additional passion as well along the way. Or, a new passion may be born – this has happened for many individuals I’ve met and worked with. And finally, because you’re pursuing the daemon, your life revolves more around the journey than the end goal, and I don’t think I have to sell you on the merits of that premise.
Some Thoughts
Here’s what quickly came to mind.
Maybe everything in the moment is not exactly what you want or intended to be doing. But with the focus on the inner-daemon, you begin to live within the realm of constant potential. It’s a good fit for now becomes viable, and you’re in a “feel good about it” state as you journey toward that more passion driven work experience you envision. You’re avoiding the “what a waste of the last few months (maybe years)” scenario, and in essence, you’re working toward altering that construct on a full time basis.
I’m also reminded of a passage I read, and my apologies for not remembering who the author was. In essence, it stated that your passion is absolutely too important to be without, but way too inconstant or fickle to use as a guide. We’re right back to that oxymoron chair, aren’t we? I wouldn’t worry about it – it will just make you think a little harder.
