You hear people toss around the word "passion" all the time. But have you ever thought about what this word truly means? Dictionary.com defines the word passion as "a strong and barely controllable emotion." However, in my opinion, passion has infinite definitions.

To me, passion is one of the only things that each individual can label as 100% fully "theirs." Passions shape us, drive us, define us and have a deeper value associated with achieving them, as opposed to obtaining other life goals.

As the 2018 Winter Olympics started last week, the world has been introduced to so many people following their true passion to fulfill their dream of representing their country.

Watching these individuals not only define what their passion is, but additionally live it out and take it to the highest level imaginable, got me thinking about what my passion truly is, and if I'm developing and following it to my utmost potential.

The importance of determining what your passion is reaching past the importance of setting goals. Goals are definitely important. They help us reach tasks, feel successful, and grow through experiences. But passions offer an intrinsic value that far outweighs the extrinsic incentives and motivations of goals.

It is important to determine your passion because it is important to chase after something that enhances your mind, spiritual growth, and sense of self-worth and getting the most out of life.

For me, I decided my passion was writing. I have always enjoyed writing, and it has become almost therapeutic for me to get out whatever comes to mind that I want to share. For one of my best friends, it's painting. For others, it's cooking, exercising, music, volunteer work, etc.; the definitions of a person's passion are endless.

Maybe you haven't found exactly what it is your passion is yet, and that's okay. There's no rush to define it, and maybe you still need some time to explore and find what it is that makes you happy, and in turn what you want to continue to grow in.

The best part about finding your passion is using it to help others. While I know I'm not the only writer in the world and my friend isn't the only painter, we all exercise our talents and interests in unique ways, making them our own.

Even though I do write for my own purposes and enjoyment, it is always so fulfilling when I can use something that makes me happy, to in turn make someone else happy too.

I encourage you to take a look at something you feel could be your passion. It amazes me how different we all are, and every day I meet someone new with a talent and drive for something I couldn't even imagine myself attempting to pull off.

We all have something to bring to the table, no matter how big or small. When we all work together to exercise our strengths to help others, the possibilities for great results and impacting other people's lives for the better are endless.

The best part is, when you're working towards helping someone by doing what you love through your passion, it really doesn't feel like work at all. And what could be better than that?