Following one’s heart or passion is often the advice given when someone enters the realm of education or the workforce. Passion, or a deep enthusiasm for something, serves as a natural driving force that motivates individuals to overcome challenges, enhance creativity, and complete difficult tasks.

Generation Z and Generation Alpha, who grew up alongside digital technology, social media, and social trends, often view passion as a primary motivation in determining their careers. For them, a job is not merely a source of income but also a platform for self-expression and pursuing interests. Sociological studies by Vallerand and Houlford (2003) reveal that passion stemming from emotional or social attachment to specific fields, such as photography, videography, or graphic design, tends to resonate with young individuals who have the time and resources to develop it.

Discovering one's passion allows individuals to focus on honing skills that become their strengths. In a survey conducted at Universitas Dian Nusantara, 40% to 60% of respondents acknowledged that passion plays a significant role in determining their life and career goals. One respondent stated, “Passion is something that excites and inspires me. It gives meaning and purpose to my life.”

Passion is influenced by motivation, which can arise from various factors, including mood. Mood itself is shaped by internal or external motivation experienced by an individual. These influences stimulate the production of dopamine and serotonin, which help the brain in decision-making, driving the desire to learn, and performing tasks. Therefore, the right motivation not only enhances productivity but also fosters individual creativity.

Passion can also be transformed into a source of income. Creative industries such as voice acting, cosplay, and streaming have become increasingly popular among Generation Z and Generation Alpha, especially after the pandemic. Advances in technology and social media make it easier for them to publish their work and build an audience.

However, passion is not the sole determinant of success. Turning a hobby or passion into a career requires financial support, risk management skills, and the ability to adapt to changing trends.

Realistically, humans are conditioned to pursue their ambitions, as explained by Abraham Maslow in his Hierarchy of Needs theory. Maslow emphasized that financial stability is essential to fulfilling primary, social, and self-actualization needs. A stable career enables individuals to achieve security, accomplishments, and recognition. Therefore, it is crucial for young generations to balance their passion with financial needs and the demands of the working world.

Nonetheless, setting targets without applying realistic limits can diminish one's appreciation for life. In the professional world, overambitious targets can lead to stress and egocentrism, potentially harming teamwork and collaboration.

To achieve success, individuals need to establish a clear set of priorities. Passion can serve as a motivating factor that aligns focus with one’s work. As one respondent affirmed, “Working with passion brings happiness and supports the achievement of goals.” However, flexibility and adaptability are equally important in meeting the demands of a dynamic working environment.

Ultimately, determining life priorities is a deeply personal decision. This article aims to serve as a reference for Universitas Dian Nusantara students in understanding the influence of passion and goal-setting in the professional world, particularly for fresh graduates. Wisdom in choosing life paths and discovering self-identity is the ultimate goal that drives human endeavors.