Are you living your passion? Or do you long for more fun, deeper relationships and a more meaningful career? There are a few ingredients in every passionate life – and they answer five simple questions:

1. What impact do you want to make?

A life of passion is a life of purpose. And purpose is about you using your gifts, talents, passion and experiences to make an impact on the world around you. So ask yourself, “How is someone’s life better because they cross my path?” Your answer is your purpose. Start living it every day – through small gestures and major decisions. Let your purpose guide you to the life you are meant to live.

2. What matters most to you?

Living with passion means doing what matters. Whether it’s spending time with the people you love, eating well, enjoying your favorite hobby, or pursuing your dream, get clear about what matters. Then make sure your everyday life mirrors those priorities.

3. What do you love?

Passion is the energy and vibrancy you bring to everything you do. That energy is automatic when it’s something you love. Identify the things that bring you joy and incorporate them into your life on a daily basis – no excuses. Stop for 60 seconds and write a list. Then schedule the items on your list on your calendar.

4. What fear do you need to conquer?

Passionate people don’t have less fear than everyone else. They just don’t let it keep them from following their passion. Expect to feel fear when it’s time to step out of your comfort zone, thenkeep stepping! If you wait for the fear to subside, you’ll be waiting a mighty long time. Living with passion means choosing courage over fear.

5. What do I need to let go of?

To make room for your purpose, priorities and the things that bring you joy,you’ll need to start saying “no” more. Identify the things in your life that drain your energy and crowd out the things that truly matter. Then take action to let them go. There are activities that no longer serve you and grudges it’s time to drop. Whatever you need to let go of, let go – so passion and purpose can flourish.

Valorie Burton is a professional speaker, life coach and the author of five books, including What’s Really Holding You Back?, Listen to Your Life, and How Did I Get So Busy? The 28-Day Plan to Free Your Time, Reclaim Your Schedule and Reconnect with What Matters Most. Subscribe to her free e-newsletter at www.valorieburton.com and follow her at www.twitter.com/valorieburton.