OB HRM Seminar: Why “Find Your Passion” Can Be Bad Advice

People hold different beliefs about the nature of interest. Some view interests as inherent and relatively unchangeable (a fixed theory of interest). Others see interests as more developed (a growth theory of interest). In laboratory studies, a growth (vs. fixed) theory led those with strong interests in one area to express greater interest in a new or different area, and to maintain a new-found interest when pursuing it became difficult. Similarly, a 1-year randomized controlled field experiment showed that incoming liberal arts undergraduates who learned about a growth theory (vs. control) developed more interest in their two mandatory math/science courses—areas outside of their pre-existing interests—which, in turn, predicted a higher grade in both courses. This openness and pursuit of new interests suggests that a growth theory might predispose people to see novel connections among disciplines and engage in more creative and innovative problem solving. Indeed, additional lab experiments showed that a growth (vs. fixed) theory leads to a stronger tendency to effectively integrate the arts and sciences. As the world continues to globalize, we will need innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to solve old and new problems. Cultivating a growth theory of interest can spark that process.

https://www.yale-nus.edu.sg/faculty/paul-okeefe/