If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or just plain disconnected from what lights you up, you’re not alone. Most of us don’t lose our passions—they just get buried under years of responsibilities, expectations, and “shoulds.”

Think back to when you were a kid. What made you lose track of time? Building Lego cities? Drawing for hours? Pretending you were an explorer in your backyard? At some point, someone probably told you to be practical, grow up, or focus on something “useful.” That’s when the compass needle started shifting—pointing toward what others wanted for you instead of what made your soul spark.

Fast forward a few decades, and you might wake up wondering, Where did my passion go? The truth is, it’s still there—you just need to clear a path back to it.

The good news? There are incredible books to help you remember who you were before the world told you who to be. They won’t magically hand you your passion—you’ll need to do the work. That means journaling, reflecting, and maybe feeling uncomfortable at times. But if you’re willing, they can lead you right back to yourself.

Here are 8 books to help you find your passion—and why each one might be the spark you need:

1. The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
If fear or overthinking has been holding you back, this book is your permission slip to leap anyway. Mel Robbins offers a simple, science-backed tool to stop hesitation in its tracks so you can finally take action—whether it’s signing up for a class, applying for a job, or dusting off an old dream.

2. I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was by Barbara Sher
Sometimes the hardest part isn’t starting—it’s knowing where to start. Barbara Sher’s no-nonsense, funny, and inspiring advice will help you uncover the talents and dreams you’ve forgotten, and show you exactly how to bring them to life.

3. Callings by Gregg Levoy
Your life whispers to you in little nudges, coincidences, and gut feelings. Callings teaches you how to listen. This timeless guide is perfect for anyone who senses there’s “something more” but can’t quite name it yet.

4. Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger
Ever wonder why some jobs feel like trying to squeeze into shoes that don’t fit? This book uses personality type to help you find the kind of work that feels natural and energizing—so you’re not forcing yourself into someone else’s mold.

5. Inspired by the Passion Test by Janet & Chris Attwood
This one is like having a personal cheerleader for your dreams. It’s packed with real stories of people who completely transformed their lives by getting clear on what mattered most—and then actually living it.

6. The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna
We all face that moment when we realize we’ve been living a “should” life. Elle Luna’s beautiful, visual book invites you to choose your “must”—your deepest calling—and gives you the courage to follow it, even if it feels scary.

7. Start Where You Are by Meera Lee Patel
If you’re not sure where to begin, start here. This illustrated journal is full of thoughtful prompts and inspiring quotes to guide you back to your dreams gently. It’s less about rushing toward answers and more about rediscovering yourself along the way.

8. Find Your Dream by Catherine Hughes
This is my own printable workbook, designed to help you dig deep into what you truly want. Think of it as your personal passion map—full of exercises to get your ideas out of your head, onto paper, and into action.

Some people will tell you that you can’t find your passion in a book. I disagree. Like any dream, the journey starts with curiosity and courage. Books can light the way—but you have to take the steps.

And here’s the thing: doing something you love feels amazing, but starting often feels uncomfortable. Change brings resistance. You might doubt yourself. You might want to quit. That’s normal.

But if you can get your ideas out of your head, onto paper, and into action, you’ll start seeing the path forward. The hardest part isn’t figuring out what you want—it’s having the courage to go after it.

So, grab one of these books. Do the exercises. Follow the breadcrumbs back to yourself. Your passion is still there, waiting for you to come home.