As professions, both nursing and teaching evoke thoughts of service, dedication, and passion. Nurses and teachers commonly state that their passion for helping others and for making a difference anchors their career choices. Rich Bluni, RN, author of the book Inspired Nurse (2009), shares that "the passion healthcare workers have for their profession is rivaled only by the tremendous difference that they make in the lives of the people that they touch." Florence Nightingale, recognized for her compassion for patients, was equally passionate about statistics, cleanliness, and disease prevention (Nightingale, 1992). The difference she made is indelible.

It's no surprise that nurse educators are a passionate group and that those in nursing professional development (NPD) are some of the most fervent. Most NPD specialists are enthusiastic about nursing, teaching, and often, a particular clinical specialty. Just ask us! Passion is what keeps us learning and doing what we do best. It sparks creativity, energy, and a generosity of spirit.

I suspect we have all been encouraged at some point in our careers to "follow our passion." Although it sounds exciting, this pursuit of passion takes courage and can move individuals out of their comfort zones. We have seen success stories of people who have taken this advice and made significant job and even occupation changes. It is tempting to dream of the next move or the greener pastures that await us in a new role, setting, or location. Given this, does it make sense that following our passion is a good career advice? Maybe, maybe not.

Following, by definition (Dictionary.com, n.d.), means to come after or to proceed behind. This makes me wonder if it is wise to follow our passion rather than engage passionately in our present work. Mike Rowe, host of the television series "Dirty Jobs" (Discovery Channel, 2005-2012), spent over 160 episodes working alongside people with unusual, unique, and often unglamorous jobs. Reflecting on this experience, he has since shared his personal, front-line perspective on following one's passion. He suggests that, rather than spend time chasing our passion to the next great thing, we should bring our passion with us. I think Mr. Rowe may be onto something. Bringing passion with us to our work, whatever it may be, can sustain us and inspire others. It can open doors or reveal opportunities that have been there, unnoticed, all along. Working and learning with passion helps individuals look for possibilities and "what might be," instead of potentially going through the motions of "what is." Seeking ways to apply our passion helps us-and others-move ahead. I suggest that we continue to dream big and plan for what lies ahead but don't save our zeal and energy for later. Use it now! Speak up, share successes, learn something new, and submit an abstract or manuscript. Mentor another, and offer a shoulder, a helping hand, or some words of wisdom.

As NPD specialists and leaders, we are devoted to the work we do and the people with whom we do it. When we bring passion to everyday projects, we see how our outlook and the outlook of those around us changes. As 2014 comes to a close and we reflect on our work and the difference we make, can we commit to tossing a regular measure of passion into our bags along with lunch, keys, and phone each morning? If colleagues need a passion boost, we can offer to share some of our own. It may be just what they need to rekindle theirs.

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