Stop Chasing Passion for Its Own Sake—Solve Real Problems Others Share

Many people fall into the trap of chasing an idea simply because they're passionate about it, only to later discover that no one else wants—or needs—their solution. Take, for instance, Lisa Price, who began blending lotions out of pure love for fragrance and craft. At first, her creations were strictly personal—a hobbyist's joy, made for herself. But as her family started benefiting from her mixtures, the real magic appeared: she'd stumbled into solving a problem others also had—dry, dull skin that popular store products didn’t fix. Initially skeptical about the idea of selling her creations, Lisa hesitated until her mother challenged her: 'Do you think people would pay for this?' That suggestion, and countless affirmations from satisfied friends, nudged her creative process in a new direction.

Around the same time, a quiet revolution was happening on TV, in online forums, and even at local flea markets—people were demanding products that weren’t available at big-box stores, that actually targeted their overlooked needs. The difference between a passionate hobbyist and an entrepreneur? It's not just about loving what you do. It's about connecting your solution to an existing need many people feel—even if you didn’t set out to solve it for anyone but yourself.

This is where the most meaningful and sustainable business ideas are born. Behavioral science calls this intersection 'problem-solution fit.' Instead of centering only on what excites you, research the problems others complain about, test your solution, and see if authentic interest rebounds from the world. As you discover that your personal challenge is widely shared, you unlock momentum and create value, moving from passionate tinkerer to builder of something others are eager to try.

If you’ve ever found yourself annoyed by something nobody else seems to notice, take a moment and write down exactly what bugs you—whether it’s the way your backpack never quite fits right, or how class group chats are endless messes. Share this frustration with a friend, and really listen to whether the problem rings true for them. Now, take a Saturday afternoon and rig together your fix; it doesn’t need to be perfect—just real. When you try it out yourself and offer to let others use or test it, pay close attention to how they react and what they change. That feedback is your clue: when others get excited and ask, “can I have one?”, you’ll know you’re onto something that matters beyond your own passion. Do this, and you’ll spot good ideas hiding in plain sight—possibly in your own kitchen, classroom, or backyard.