multi-passionate

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If you’re autistic or ADHD, you probably have a long list of interests and passions. Maybe you’ve been called “flaky” for switching career paths, or perhaps you’ve been criticized for not “sticking with one thing.” The truth is, being multi-passionate is a natural part of neurodivergence.

Many of us thrive on novelty, diving deep into different fields and skill sets with intense focus. While this ability can lead to a wealth of knowledge and experience, it can also leave us feeling torn between multiple career paths, unsure where to direct our energy. When society tells us we must pick one passion and stick with it for life, it can feel suffocating. But what if our ability to engage in multiple passions isn’t a weakness—but a strength?

Society often encourages specialization—picking a single career and staying with it for life. But for many neurodivergent (ND) folks, that can feel like an impossible demand. Our curiosity drives us to explore, learn, and master different skills. And yet, this trait is often misunderstood. Instead of being seen as ambitious, adaptable, and dynamic, we’re sometimes mislabeled as indecisive, unreliable, or lacking focus.

In this post, I’ll share my personal journey as a multi-passionate ND, the challenges I’ve faced, and the strategies I’ve used to find balance and fulfillment. Whether you’re struggling with career decisions, feeling overwhelmed by your many interests, or simply looking for validation that your way of being is okay—you’re not alone.

The Challenges of Being Multi-Passionate

Feeling Pulled in Multiple Directions

It’s common for NDs to have multiple career aspirations. You might love writing, filmmaking, science, and therapy all at once. It can feel overwhelming trying to decide where to focus your time and energy. Sometimes, we dive headfirst into one passion, only to find ourselves drawn to another soon after. This cycle of shifting focus can make us feel like we’re never making real progress.

Society’s Expectations Regarding Being Multi-passionate

Many people see job-hopping or changing interests as a lack of commitment. But for NDs, our drive to explore is an essential part of who we are. The traditional career path doesn’t always work for a multi-passionate individual. Instead of being encouraged to pursue a variety of interests, we’re often told to “just pick something” and “stick with it.” But forcing ourselves into a linear career path that doesn’t align with how our brains work can lead to frustration and burnout.

Burnout and Decision Fatigue

Diving deep into multiple passions can be exhausting. It’s easy to overcommit and stretch yourself too thin, leading to burnout. The mental load of deciding where to invest our time and energy can be overwhelming. The pressure to make the “right” choice often leads to decision paralysis, leaving us stuck in a cycle of starting and stopping projects without feeling like we’re getting anywhere.

Finding Balance: How to Thrive as a Multi-Passionate Neurodivergent

Reframe It as a Strength

Your ability to learn quickly, adapt, and explore diverse fields is an asset! Embrace your curiosity and use it to your advantage as a multi-passionate person. Instead of viewing your shifting interests as a flaw, recognize that your ability to see connections between different disciplines makes you a creative problem solver and an innovative thinker.

Look for Overlaps Between Your Interests

Can you combine passions into a unique career path? For example, if like me you love writing and psychology, maybe you can become a therapist who blogs. If you enjoy filmmaking and social work, you could create educational content about mental health.

Sometimes, the key to fulfillment isn’t choosing one passion over another but finding ways to integrate them into a career or lifestyle that allows you to engage with multiple interests simultaneously.

Adopt the “Ikigai” Framework

The Japanese concept of ikigai suggests that fulfillment comes from work that:

• You love (your passion)
• You’re good at (your vocation)
• The world needs (your mission)
• Pays you well (your profession)

If you can find a career that incorporates all four, you’re on the right track as a multi-passionate person! Rather than limiting yourself to just one pursuit, think about how you can create a career that aligns with your multiple passions and strengths.

Create a Passion Portfolio

Instead of choosing just one passion, consider how you can balance multiple interests over time. You don’t have to do everything at once—some passions can be hobbies, side projects, or long-term goals. A passion portfolio allows a multi-passionate individual to honor all their interests.

Think of your career and life as a buffet or combo platter rather than a set menu. You can sample different interests at different times, and it’s okay if your focus shifts. Allow yourself the flexibility to evolve.

Set Boundaries to Avoid Burnout

Prioritize rest and self-care. Give yourself permission to slow down and enjoy each passion without rushing to turn it into a career. Being multi-passionate doesn’t mean you have to do everything at once! Establishing healthy boundaries—such as time-blocking your passions, scheduling breaks, and recognizing when to step back—can help prevent burnout.

Redefining Success on Your Terms

Traditional career advice doesn’t always fit NDs. Instead of forcing yourself to fit into a mold that wasn’t designed for you, embrace the unique way your brain works as a multi-passionate ND. Success doesn’t have to mean climbing a single corporate ladder—it can mean crafting a fulfilling life that allows you to explore, create, and grow in multiple areas.

You are not “flaky” or “inconsistent”—you are passionate, curious, and adaptable. Your multi-passionate nature is a gift, and when harnessed effectively, it can lead to a rich, fulfilling life.

What about you? What are your passions, and how have you navigated the challenges of being multi-passionate? Let’s chat in the comments!