Why Being a Multi-Passionate Person Is a Strength: Reflections from a Therapist
Embracing all parts of yourself often means standing at a crossroads, deciding to take multiple paths and live authentically.
Introduction: My Journey to Embracing All My Passions
Growing up, I always heard that I needed to pick one career, one passion, and stick with it. But that never felt right to me. I was interested in art, psychology, music, vegan cooking, healing practices, spirituality, etc. For years, I felt lost because I didn’t fit into the "one path" mold.
As an undergrad, I struggled for a long time with choosing a major. I felt a lot of pressure to make the “right” choice, which often left me overwhelmed and anxious. After much back-and-forth, I eventually chose psychology but couldn't let go of my passion for art. It was challenging because I worried about being seen as unfocused or unrealistic.
Eventually, I decided to add an art major, which changed everything. For my honors thesis, I became the first person at UC Riverside to combine psychology and art, creating a psychological study that transformed into an art installation. This experience felt like breaking new ground but also meant navigating uncertainty, as the program had to develop new rules just for me.
I’ve met many multi-talented people in different cities, but moving to Los Angeles in 2016 helped me fully accept myself in all my multiplicities. LA has numerous multi-hyphenates—artists who are also witches and teachers, accountants in punk bands, and activists who bake, grow flowers, and sew. The city celebrates its vibrant, hustling culture, with strong connections between contemporary art and other creative fields like film, music, dance, and media.
Seeing so many people fearlessly embrace all their passions in this city permitted me to do the same. I finally felt seen, as if a weight had been lifted. For the first time, I knew I didn’t have to choose—I could honor every part of who I am, which was my most authentic choice.
Now, as a therapist and multi-hyphenate in Los Angeles, I want to help others do the same: find their path, embrace all their passions, and live fulfilling lives.
Multi-passionate individuals often face the challenge of managing multiple interests and tasks, leading to feelings of overwhelm. Therapy can help bring balance and clarity.
The Challenges of Being a Multi-Passionate Person
If you have multiple passions, you’ve probably felt the pressure to “just pick one.” You might have asked yourself, 'How do I balance multiple passions?' or 'Is it okay to have more than one career?'
Often, we are referred to as "jack of all trades, master of none." However, the complete saying actually goes, "jack of all trades, master of none, though frequently better than a master of one." Versatility and adaptability are essential qualities in today's world. After all, why can't you excel in multiple areas?
There are several aspects of being a multi-passionate person that can be improved. Many people believe that having multiple passions makes someone unfocused or unreliable, and that being multi-passionate means being scattered and unable to concentrate. In reality, there are numerous effective ways to embrace being multi-passionate.
For example, I have spent many years focusing solely on becoming or practicing as a therapist, and I have also taken years to focus entirely on my art practice and career. Now, I can do both at once.
Multi-passionate people bring incredible versatility, creativity, and resilience to whatever they do. These qualities are valuable in today's world, where adaptability is key. There is no one way to be a multi-hyphenate.
What way do you feel works best for you right now?
How Therapy Can Help Multi-Passionate People
When I started embracing my multi-passionate identity, I realized how important it was to have support—someone to validate my experiences, help me find balance, and navigate the challenges of having multiple passions. That’s what I want to offer my clients.
Therapy can be a space where you explore your passions without judgment. Together, we can find ways to honor all parts of you while creating a fulfilling, balanced life. If you’re a multi-passionate person in Los Angeles or California, therapy can help you manage the unique challenges of being multi-passionate.
Staying organized and creating a comfortable workspace can help multi-passionate individuals thrive by managing their many interests effectively.
Tips for Thriving as a Multi-Passionate Person
Here are a few things that have helped me thrive as a multi-passionate person:
Set Boundaries: Saying no to things that drain your energy is okay.
Prioritize Self-Care: You can’t do it all without running on empty. Take care of yourself first.
Stay Organized: Time management is crucial for managing multiple passions. Finding a system that works for you—a planner, digital tools, or daily routines—can help you keep track of your projects.
Celebrate Your Wins: No matter how small. Every step forward matters.
Embracing all parts of yourself and finding joy in authenticity—live a life that is true to you.
Finding Joy in Authenticity
Choosing to embrace all of my passions hasn’t always been easy, but it has been the most fulfilling choice I’ve ever made. Have you ever wondered, 'Why do I feel guilty about not focusing on one thing?' or 'Can I be successful with multiple jobs or careers?' If so, you’re not alone.
Embracing all parts of yourself is more than merely allowing multiple interests—it’s about permitting yourself to be who you are. Denying any part of yourself can lead to frustration and a lack of fulfillment.
Living authentically allows you to experience greater joy, deeper connections, and a sense of alignment.
If you’re navigating your journey as a multi-passionate person and want support from someone who truly understands it, I’m here for you.
Let’s work together to honor all of who you are and create a path that feels true to you. If you’re curious about how therapy could help you as a multi-passionate person, I’d love to hear from you.
I know how challenging it can be to navigate all the passions that make you who you are, and I’d be honored to help you create a balanced and fulfilling path.
Visit Therapy with Edgar to learn more about my services for creatives and multi-passionate people in Los Angeles and California.