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Passion to Purpose: A Seven-Step Journey to Shed Self-Doubt, Find Inspiration, and Change Your Life (and the World) for the Better
A cross between The Promise of a Pencil and She Means Business , this book from the co-founder of a charity dedicated to bringing education to students in rural Kenya demonstrates how finding your purpose can change the world and change your life.
THE WORLD IS WAITING FOR YOUR BIG DREAM!
Imagine if everyone took a few minutes each day to make the world a better place using their unique talents fueled by their deepest passions. What an amazing world we would live in!
This book is your guide to discovering your passion, living your purpose, and making a positive impact on the world. Amy McLaren's passion for world travel and education kickstarted her journey from unfulfilled schoolteacher to the purpose-driven founder of Village Impact, a charity that provides education for nearly 5,000 kids in Kenya in partnership with local communities.
But this book isn't about doing exactly what Amy did or following a template to start a business or non-profit--it's about making your big dream into a reality. Learn how
THE WORLD IS WAITING FOR YOUR BIG DREAM!
Imagine if everyone took a few minutes each day to make the world a better place using their unique talents fueled by their deepest passions. What an amazing world we would live in!
This book is your guide to discovering your passion, living your purpose, and making a positive impact on the world. Amy McLaren's passion for world travel and education kickstarted her journey from unfulfilled schoolteacher to the purpose-driven founder of Village Impact, a charity that provides education for nearly 5,000 kids in Kenya in partnership with local communities.
But this book isn't about doing exactly what Amy did or following a template to start a business or non-profit--it's about making your big dream into a reality. Learn how
- GenresNonfiction
248 pages, Hardcover
Published August 10, 2021
50 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 29, 2024
I picked up this inspiring book at Indigo in Ancaster and as I did, a woman shared that it was an excellent book. I said that is good enough for me and added it to my purchases... later that night, I realized that the woman that I spoke to was the author herself... I wish I had known that and got the books signed!
I enjoyed this book about finding your passion and making a difference in this world and it has bolstered some of the ideas I have for service, leadership and kindness to make the world a better place!
May 28. 2024 - enjoyed a second read of this inspiring book and took notes!!
I enjoyed this book about finding your passion and making a difference in this world and it has bolstered some of the ideas I have for service, leadership and kindness to make the world a better place!
May 28. 2024 - enjoyed a second read of this inspiring book and took notes!!
August 10, 2021
This is a wonderful book that can serve as a resourceful guide to help the reader discover their true passion and then live out their purpose in life.
The author was brave in sharing her struggles, doubts and fears. She was brilliant in using her personal life experiences to inspire the reader to think out of the cookie cutter norms of society and follow the dreams God places on your heart.
I recommend this book to everyone who's searching for something more in life.
*The author's book launch team manager provided me (Alexis A. Goring) with a complimentary copy of Amy McLaren's book, "Passion to Purpose". My opinions in this book review are my own.
The author was brave in sharing her struggles, doubts and fears. She was brilliant in using her personal life experiences to inspire the reader to think out of the cookie cutter norms of society and follow the dreams God places on your heart.
I recommend this book to everyone who's searching for something more in life.
*The author's book launch team manager provided me (Alexis A. Goring) with a complimentary copy of Amy McLaren's book, "Passion to Purpose". My opinions in this book review are my own.
April 16, 2025
This is such a great roadmap if you want to create a non-profit organisation/a charity. There are so many wonderful tips. It's not at all what I expected when I bought this book.
In 2019, I attended one of Stu McLaren's events and I remember him and Amy talking about Village Impact, but I had no idea how it was created and how it has evolved over the years.
A truly fascinating story, which brought me to tears in the final chapters about legacy. Their sensitivity to Kenyan culture and their passion for giving Kenyan children so many opportunities, and later the opportunity to be entrepreneurs, within their OWN country, with their OWN values and customs, are so beautiful.
Thanks Amy for such a wonderful book. A true gift and legacy in itself.
In 2019, I attended one of Stu McLaren's events and I remember him and Amy talking about Village Impact, but I had no idea how it was created and how it has evolved over the years.
A truly fascinating story, which brought me to tears in the final chapters about legacy. Their sensitivity to Kenyan culture and their passion for giving Kenyan children so many opportunities, and later the opportunity to be entrepreneurs, within their OWN country, with their OWN values and customs, are so beautiful.
Thanks Amy for such a wonderful book. A true gift and legacy in itself.
August 11, 2021
Wow. McLaren shares her zigzagging path to turning her passions into purpose with insight and clarity.
Some of the nuggets of truth that resonated with me:
“The first step toward getting to your yes is acknowledging your no.”
“People often get hung up looking for the perfect scenario and opportunity, but I learned that they come when you make them happen.”
“Choosing passion is about constantly moving outside your comfort zone.”
If your life feels a bit lackadaisical and unfulfilling, this book will encourage you to dive deep into your personal passions to find the thing that can become your purpose. Don’t be discouraged if you aren’t driven to start a global nonprofit (I’m not) because every corner of the world needs people living passionately. That’s what this book will help you do.
Each section has activities for you to complete to help you discover your passions, find how they link to your purpose, and get busy doing even the smallest things that are a step in the direction toward experiencing joy and satisfaction.
My copy of this book is riddled with highlights. I want to incorporate their truth into a mindset that pursues my passion eagerly knowing it is the only path to a purposeful life.
Some of the nuggets of truth that resonated with me:
“The first step toward getting to your yes is acknowledging your no.”
“People often get hung up looking for the perfect scenario and opportunity, but I learned that they come when you make them happen.”
“Choosing passion is about constantly moving outside your comfort zone.”
If your life feels a bit lackadaisical and unfulfilling, this book will encourage you to dive deep into your personal passions to find the thing that can become your purpose. Don’t be discouraged if you aren’t driven to start a global nonprofit (I’m not) because every corner of the world needs people living passionately. That’s what this book will help you do.
Each section has activities for you to complete to help you discover your passions, find how they link to your purpose, and get busy doing even the smallest things that are a step in the direction toward experiencing joy and satisfaction.
My copy of this book is riddled with highlights. I want to incorporate their truth into a mindset that pursues my passion eagerly knowing it is the only path to a purposeful life.
August 11, 2021
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this book and it was so good and now I'm listening to the audible version. Amy is a true mentor in living in your passions.
She has created such a wonderful life that bring her passions to the forefront of what she does and in this book she takes us step by step showing us how we can do it too!
This book is not about quitting your day job and making your hobby a business (unless that's what you're called to do) it's about finding those passions and some may be hidden deep and then finding ways to bring them into your everyday life.
We are only here for a short time there isn't time to waste being unhappy with things that are in our power to change. I'm so glad I have this book to refer back to again and again to remind me of that. I'm also super excited to know the proceeds of this book are going to build a school and by buying the book I've helped make that happen. It's a great book with a great message and an awesome back story.
I can't wait to get back to my passions Salsa Dancing and Singing :) #feelinginspired
She has created such a wonderful life that bring her passions to the forefront of what she does and in this book she takes us step by step showing us how we can do it too!
This book is not about quitting your day job and making your hobby a business (unless that's what you're called to do) it's about finding those passions and some may be hidden deep and then finding ways to bring them into your everyday life.
We are only here for a short time there isn't time to waste being unhappy with things that are in our power to change. I'm so glad I have this book to refer back to again and again to remind me of that. I'm also super excited to know the proceeds of this book are going to build a school and by buying the book I've helped make that happen. It's a great book with a great message and an awesome back story.
I can't wait to get back to my passions Salsa Dancing and Singing :) #feelinginspired
August 18, 2021
Amy McLaren writes a wonderful book about living your passion and embracing your purpose to make the world better! This practical book encourages ridding self doubt and living the life you were meant to live. Follow her steps to gain confidence, be inspired, and live the dream you’ve always longed for.
August 24, 2021
I love that this book is encouraging and practical for adding more fulfillment to my life by helping me think about my passions and how to start changing my life to experience more of that. This isn't the typical kind that just promotes business success, but rather it helps you find what lights you up personally, and then my favorite part is that it doesn't stop with you because it encourages you to take that passion to make a difference in others' lives!
I like how she shares about developing her passion into a charity that impacts others and shows that we can also make that impact on our community (without needing to go as far as a business or charity, but simply through living in our passion with focus which will carry over to those around us).
I read it all on one sitting, and now I have so many highlights to go through to use her tips to change aspects of my life and give back using my passions as well. I recommend this even if you just want a little more enjoyment and purpose in your days, not just for those who have big goals or a secret dream they put on hold. So glad I discovered this book!
I like how she shares about developing her passion into a charity that impacts others and shows that we can also make that impact on our community (without needing to go as far as a business or charity, but simply through living in our passion with focus which will carry over to those around us).
I read it all on one sitting, and now I have so many highlights to go through to use her tips to change aspects of my life and give back using my passions as well. I recommend this even if you just want a little more enjoyment and purpose in your days, not just for those who have big goals or a secret dream they put on hold. So glad I discovered this book!
January 11, 2023
Enjoyed reading the book (actually read and listened to it being read by the author).
It’s a good inspiration, and gives you specific steps to take and ways to approach your passion. While the author talked about her own journey and her love to travel, I had a feeling that in other words she’s implying that passion and purpose have to be international or more than « just teaching ». The author did not specifically say that but that was the vibe. Which I don’t necessarily agree with even though I share her passion. I love traveling and love helping people and I have a kid.
Overall, I enjoyed reading it, I felt inspired, and would definitely go through the questions and steps she listed to help find/work on my passion. She also lists other valuable resources like books and tools that would help. I appreciated that.
I recommend it for those who feel stuck not knowing what they want or like to do, but also more for those who know what they want but need inspiration and practical steps to peruse their passion.
It’s a good inspiration, and gives you specific steps to take and ways to approach your passion. While the author talked about her own journey and her love to travel, I had a feeling that in other words she’s implying that passion and purpose have to be international or more than « just teaching ». The author did not specifically say that but that was the vibe. Which I don’t necessarily agree with even though I share her passion. I love traveling and love helping people and I have a kid.
Overall, I enjoyed reading it, I felt inspired, and would definitely go through the questions and steps she listed to help find/work on my passion. She also lists other valuable resources like books and tools that would help. I appreciated that.
I recommend it for those who feel stuck not knowing what they want or like to do, but also more for those who know what they want but need inspiration and practical steps to peruse their passion.
December 4, 2023
I loved every minute of reading Amy’s book. This is a must read for anyone who knows they're meant for more and feels like they haven't yet tapped into who they really are. Start here. You won’t regret it.
I especially loved Amy’s stories about meeting personal development, life buckets, connecting with cultures through travel, modeling living our best lives for our children, adventure, the messy middle, and money mindset.
This book has some super tactical takeaways like the “Mom and Dad staycation” to plan the year ahead, how to use speaking at events in service of doing more good in the world, defining how you help by creating processes and systems, and how to take the first steps in courage towards the dreams you want to make come true.
I think most of all, I love this book because it’s all about nurturing a possibility mindset and allowing that to guide you through celebrating all the wins to learning from the mistakes and growing into the best version of YOU.
I especially loved Amy’s stories about meeting personal development, life buckets, connecting with cultures through travel, modeling living our best lives for our children, adventure, the messy middle, and money mindset.
This book has some super tactical takeaways like the “Mom and Dad staycation” to plan the year ahead, how to use speaking at events in service of doing more good in the world, defining how you help by creating processes and systems, and how to take the first steps in courage towards the dreams you want to make come true.
I think most of all, I love this book because it’s all about nurturing a possibility mindset and allowing that to guide you through celebrating all the wins to learning from the mistakes and growing into the best version of YOU.
April 16, 2022
Solid! 3.5. TLDR: Quality perspective and interesting journey but implementable content didn’t knock my socks off. However, if you’re more toward the beginning of your journey this may be perfect for you!
Immense respect for the charitable initiatives and global perspectives; feel like there is a lot that *could* be learned from the author. Was hoping to get a fresh perspective while feeling a little stuck in a hard life/business season. Felt like the tangible/actionable content was a bit surface-level/general and/or beginner. Had I read this 5 years ago I probably would have thought differently. If you’re earlier in either your entrepreneurial or personal development journey and aligned with the idea of giving back or working based on your passion, this may be the perfect book for you!
Immense respect for the charitable initiatives and global perspectives; feel like there is a lot that *could* be learned from the author. Was hoping to get a fresh perspective while feeling a little stuck in a hard life/business season. Felt like the tangible/actionable content was a bit surface-level/general and/or beginner. Had I read this 5 years ago I probably would have thought differently. If you’re earlier in either your entrepreneurial or personal development journey and aligned with the idea of giving back or working based on your passion, this may be the perfect book for you!
August 10, 2021
If you are looking to turn find a way to make your passion into making an impact, this book is for you. Amy weaves in her life experiences in with tips, questions and actionable steps to making your passion a substantial part of your life. She provides both large and small ways to incorporating your passion as well as thoughtful questions to diving deep into your passions. I felt like I was being counseled by a friend who has my best interests at heart, giving encouragement and asking tough questions. I also appreciate that the proceeds from this book are going to fund Amy and her husband, Stu's, charity Village Impact. I believe that this book will be the encouragement and start for many who are working on incorporating passions into their lives.
August 12, 2021
If you also struggle with feeling too old to make an impact, let this book change your mind. Amy’s journey is so inspiring to show us that “running with a big idea doesn’t require perfection.” Passion to Purpose is your go-to resource, helping you answer self-discovery questions and gives specific actions to take to set and meet your goals.
“To turn passion into purpose, it’s vital to adopt an adventure mindset that allows you to step into bolder risks and unknown territory, even when your heart is going pitter-patter and you have no idea what’s around the corner!”
Grab your girlfriends or biz besties together for a fall book club and discover together how you can live your purpose and impact the world.
“To turn passion into purpose, it’s vital to adopt an adventure mindset that allows you to step into bolder risks and unknown territory, even when your heart is going pitter-patter and you have no idea what’s around the corner!”
Grab your girlfriends or biz besties together for a fall book club and discover together how you can live your purpose and impact the world.
August 18, 2021
I had the opportunity to read a pre-release copy of Passion to Purpose and have since ordered over 10 copies to gift to friends and colleagues. Amy takes a down-to-earth approach in uncovering your passion even in a busy world that is often full of obligations. I found her style of writing to be easy to digest and easy to put her tips and ideas into action. Her stories, examples, and explanations bring the book to life. I don't always read book like this, but I have read this one three times, have countless notes and action steps, and keep finding new nuggets. I found it so helpful that I am hosting a book club for health coaches over the next month.
August 23, 2021
Passion to Purpose is a book that urges the reader to use their passions to make an impact on the world and on people’s lives. When you pursue dreams that you are passionate about and that light you up, there is always a way to turn that passion into purpose. When we are so passionate about something, we look towards the endless possibilities rather than the things that could derail us in our efforts. It’s the “I can” versus “I can’t” mentality.
This book is sprinkled with quotes (referred to as Passion Notes), tips, actionable steps, inspiration, resources, questions to ponder and more.
I highly recommend this book no matter how big or small your passionate dream is!
This book is sprinkled with quotes (referred to as Passion Notes), tips, actionable steps, inspiration, resources, questions to ponder and more.
I highly recommend this book no matter how big or small your passionate dream is!
August 17, 2021
This book is written beautifully. A mix of step by step guidance in defining your passion and hearing how Amy discovered hers. I loved reading the story of how Village Impact started and how we all can help others with the smallest things. I definitely dog eared and highlighted along with taking many notes! The Sections make it easier to digest the steps to go from passion to purpose. I unlocked some hidden passions and passions that I tucked away. My new handbook! Highly recommend. I'm
Reading for a second time.
Reading for a second time.
August 17, 2021
This book proves the truth that before you can serve the world you have to fulfill your own heart's desire. A refreshing change from the strategic/tactical handbooks on how to build an empire. This one focuses on following your heart as the barometer for what you were put on earth to do. If you stay tuned to what's going on inside and get clear on what you value, the path will make itself clear as you take action and do the work.
August 18, 2021
While Amy McLaren shares her own path to finding and living her purpose, this book is about so much more. The thought-provoking questions are helping me to dig deep, rekindle my passions and step more fully into my purpose.
Yes, you'll be inspired but more than anything, your life will be much better off when you follow the prompts offered inside. Don't just read the book, let it motivate you to discover and live YOUR best life.
Yes, you'll be inspired but more than anything, your life will be much better off when you follow the prompts offered inside. Don't just read the book, let it motivate you to discover and live YOUR best life.
August 23, 2021
This book is a great place to start in a journey of finding your passion. A well thought out lay out walks you through Amy's journey and gives you information on how to get your own passions pumping! Amy's transparency allows the reader to know her ups and downs and that she struggled and made it!!! Inspirational and not in your face this book is a great read and has helped me to open up to ideas that might not have been as far fetched as I once thought!!
August 25, 2021
Opening up Amy's book, Passion to Purpose, is accepting an invitation you won't regret. It is storytelling, memoir and practical guide all in one. The author's passion is palpable, making it an earnest, heartfelt and generous read. Amy McLaren is the real deal and her commitment, experience and success in pursuing her passions and making an impact make her a trustworthy guide. While this is Amy's story, Passion to Purpose will inspire you to live out yours.
November 12, 2022
I highlighted several passages in the book that were thought provoking. I would recommend the book for that reason. I'm not sure exactly why I am giving it 4 stars instead of 5 except I read a lot of books and go through them quickly. I struggled to finish this one. I don't know if it was my mindset that is creating a block but I still haven't finished it. As I look through my highlighted words I do still find them beneficial. Loved the story and what she has done with Village Impact!
August 10, 2021
Passion to Purpose is brilliantly written to not only inspire but give acting steps that make living with more passion and giving possible. Any suggests starting small, and I believe gifting this book to share the heart of giving with those we love is the best step. I’ll be gifting this book to people I love and women I work with for years to come!
August 10, 2021
I encourage you to pick up this book. It is now available for purchase. Amy shares some of her passions for others using her interests and experiences. She asks you questions along the way and invites you to be a part of recognizing yours, how to get started, and making a difference in the lives of others around you. This is a quick, concise read, that is organized well.
August 21, 2021
Heading into retirement I felt the need for a new direction in life. This book gave me ideas on how to look into my life to see what I truly want and a plan on how to lay it so I could reach my goal. We have many stages in life and need a different direction at times. I’m grateful for the opportunity I was given to review this book and look forward to loaning it out to my daughter.
August 23, 2021
This book was very timely for me as I am pondering what is ahead for me. At 61 I thought it would be retirement but God has a purpose and I have been thinking on how to begin this journey.
Thanks to the author for sharing her writing with me and helping me to find some clear direction.
Looking forward to the next 20 years as I serve and give in a new way.
Thanks to the author for sharing her writing with me and helping me to find some clear direction.
Looking forward to the next 20 years as I serve and give in a new way.
August 8, 2021
Encouraging, inspiring and heartwarming. A great look into the passion and purpose of the lives of author Amy McLaren and her husband Stu. Powerful story of faith and dedication. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
August 10, 2021
What if your passion was ignited and you turned it into a purpose? This could change you and the world around you. This book gives you practical action steps to do just this. I received an advance copy to read but did not influence my opinion at all.
August 18, 2021
Blessed to receive an advance copy of this book. Beautifully written. Motivational without being overwhelmingly mushy. Guiding the reader to focus more on our inward self and our true passions and aspirations for the life we are given.
August 18, 2021
I’ve only read the first couple of chapters but so far I’m enjoying how practical this book is. I really like the questions the author asks throughout the chapter to help the reader discover his or her passions.
December 20, 2021
Informative book, explaining how to get from the passion of an idea to the purpose of it and beyond.
October 1, 2022
When you reach the last page, you would like to start all over again for sure. Everyone in the world has passion. A book like this helps to rebuild your passion if you’re not following it already.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews