1A Essay 1: Is Following Your Passion Bad Career Advice?
The Purpose of Essay 1:
The purpose of your first essay is to explore the potential dangers and weaknesses of following your passion at the exclusion of other factors to achieve success. In what ways is following your passion dangerous? In what ways is the notion of passion a meaningless cliche? Why do such meaningless cliches become influential? What kind of audience hunger
for these empty platitudes? How is Cal Newport’s idea of the craftsman mindset offered as an antidote to the dangers of following your passion? What moral considerations should be factored into cultivating a craftsman mindset?
To explore these questions, you can choose from one of the following 2 prompts:
In a 1,200-word essay that adheres to current MLA format and provides a minimum of 4 sources for your Works Cited page, write an argumentative essay that defends, refutes, or complicates Cal Newport’s claim from his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his online article “The Passion Trap” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" and Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why" that the career advice to follow your passion is dangerous and should be replaced by the craftsman mindset. Be sure to have a counterargument-rebuttal paragraph before your conclusion. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Resources for Option A:
- "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your PassionLinks to an external site.," by Cal Newport
- Online article “The Passion TrapLinks to an external site.” by Cal Newport
- "The Career Craftsman ManifestoLinks to an external site." by Cal Newport
- Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's WhyLinks to an external site."
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Building Block Assignment #1 for Follow Your Passion:
1A Essay 1 Building Block 1
In a 200-word paragraph, write about the conflict you have between passion and practicality in the context of your college major. Use at least two signal phrases to address content from the recommended online articles for Option A.
These articles come from Essay 1:
In a 1,200-word essay that adheres to current MLA format and provides a minimum of 4 sources for your Works Cited page, write an argumentative essay that defends, refutes, or complicates Cal Newport’s claim from his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his online article “The Passion Trap” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" and Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why" that the career advice to follow your passion is dangerous and should be replaced by the craftsman mindset. Be sure to have a counterargument-rebuttal paragraph before your conclusion. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
- "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," by Cal Newport
- Online article “The Passion Trap” by Cal Newport
- "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" by Cal Newport
- Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why"
Suggested Outline for Essay 1
Paragraph 1: In a 200-word paragraph, write about the conflict you have between passion and practicality in the context of your college major. Use at least two signal phrases to address content from the recommended online articles for Option A.
Paragraph 2: Write your thesis or claim and give 4 reasons in your thesis to show your explanations.
Paragraphs 3-6: Your supporting paragraphs.
Paragraph 7: Your counterargument-rebuttal paragraph.
Paragraph 8: Your conclusion: a dramatic, powerful restatement of your thesis.
These articles come from Essay 1:
Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Resources for Option A:
- "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," by Cal Newport
- Online article “The Passion Trap” by Cal Newport
- "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" by Cal Newport
- Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why."
McMahon's Thesis:
Basing your career and college major on passion is imbecilic, nonsensical, and so asinine as to defy belief.
My body paragraphs would be comprised of the following:
For one, the idea of passion is uniquely American--based on Hollywood, advertising, and uniquely American narcissism, which presents the fantasy of having a job that feels like Christmas every day.
For two, the search for passion in a career is a non sequitur: in other words, it's irrelevant. The idea of looking for dopamine-saturated euphoric passions in a career is a toddler's dream and has no bearing on reality.
For three, real-life scenarios reveal that we don't even care about passion. It's all lip service. Offer me a choice of 45K a year as a passionate workout YouTuber or 200K a year as a moderately interested solar salesperson, and I'll take the latter job every day, all day.
For four, a job doesn't steal passion. A job is something you get great at and take pride in as a professional. Passion is irrelevant.
For five, developing outstanding job skills give you the freedom to have a job and pursue a hobby that you're passionate about. That's a more realistic way to look at entering adulthood.
Rewritten with some verve and wit:
Basing your career or college major on passion is about as brilliant as trying to pay rent with Monopoly money. It's the kind of advice that sounds like it came straight out of a Disney movie or a self-help seminar, not from anyone who's actually held a job for more than five minutes.
First off, the entire concept of passion as a career guide is uniquely American—something conjured up by Hollywood, slick marketing campaigns, and a whole lot of self-obsession. It's the fantasy that your job should feel like Christmas morning every single day, complete with a soundtrack of inspirational quotes and slow-motion victory laps. Newsflash: the real world doesn't come with theme music, and nobody is clapping for you at your desk.
Secondly, searching for passion in your career is a non sequitur—it’s irrelevant, off-topic, and, frankly, childish. Expecting a job to fulfill your dopamine cravings is the kind of thinking reserved for toddlers on a sugar rush. You want excitement? Ride a rollercoaster. Your career, on the other hand, is supposed to pay the bills, not light up the pleasure centers of your brain like the 4th of July.
Third, let's face it: we don’t actually care about passion. It’s a buzzword, a nice little soundbite for cocktail parties and social media profiles. But if I offered you the choice between making $45K a year as an enthusiastic, heart-on-your-sleeve fitness influencer or $200K selling solar panels with the enthusiasm of someone folding laundry, you're going to grab the money and run. Passion, schmassion—show me the cash.
Fourth, a job doesn’t steal your passion. That's not its job. It’s something you get good at, something you take pride in because you're a professional, not because it gives you warm fuzzies. The idea that a job is supposed to be your soul's true calling is nothing but a Hallmark fantasy.
Finally, here's the real kicker: mastering your job skills is what gives you the freedom to pursue passions on the side, where they belong. Get good at your career, make a decent living, and then enjoy your hobbies without needing them to pay for your mortgage. That's how adulthood works—it's not about chasing dreams, it's about building something that actually sustains you.
Finding Your Authentic Voice: The Brawler vs. The Peacemaker in Argumentative Writing
When we write, we strive to connect with our readers on an emotional level, and this connection is often achieved through our tone or rhetorical style. Just as musicians choose a genre that best expresses their identity—whether it’s jazz, rock, or hip hop—writers develop their unique style to convey their message effectively. But what if you’re still discovering your voice as a writer? How do you choose the style that best suits you?
If you’re unsure of your writing style, a good starting point is to consider two basic archetypes: The Brawler and The Peacemaker.
#### The Brawler: Bold, Bombastic, and Entertaining
The Brawler is a writer who doesn’t shy away from drama. They are bold, assertive, and often confrontational. The advantage of being a Brawler is that you’re more likely to grab the reader’s attention with your powerful, no-holds-barred approach. Famous Brawlers in writing include H.L. Mencken, Christopher Hitchens, and Molly Ivins—writers known for their sharp wit and unrelenting critiques.
However, being a Brawler has its drawbacks. You risk coming across as arrogant, pompous, or even dismissive. The desire to dominate the argument can sometimes overshadow the need for nuance and fairness, making your writing more about self-aggrandizement than clarity or insight. Social media, particularly platforms like Twitter, are teeming with Brawlers whose relentless pursuit of attention often wears thin over time.
Despite these pitfalls, a disciplined Brawler can be highly effective, delivering compelling and entertaining arguments that resonate with readers.
The Peacemaker: Calm, Reasonable, and Persuasive
In contrast, the Peacemaker takes a more measured approach. This writer is calm, clear-eyed, and fair-minded. The Peacemaker’s strength lies in their ability to build credibility through reasoned arguments and thoughtful consideration of opposing views. Writers like Jill Lepore, Elizabeth Kolbert, and Hua Hsu exemplify this style—persuading not through confrontation, but through clarity and subtlety.
Yet, the Peacemaker also faces challenges. Their writing can sometimes come across as too cautious, even bland. The desire to avoid conflict can result in arguments that lack the emotional punch needed to keep readers engaged. When taken too far, the Peacemaker’s gentleness can dilute the message, making it seem insipid or overly conciliatory.
However, when done well, the Peacemaker’s style can be deeply persuasive, offering a balanced and nuanced perspective that resonates with readers seeking thoughtful, well-rounded arguments.
Choosing Your Style: The Brawler or the Peacemaker?
So, which style is better? The answer is neither. The key is authenticity. Your writing should reflect who you are. If you’re naturally bold and assertive, the Brawler style may come naturally to you. If you’re more introspective and reasoned, the Peacemaker’s approach might be a better fit. In a world full of superficiality and noise, finding your authentic voice is what will ultimately connect with your readers.
### Argumentation in Action: The Brawler vs. The Peacemaker in Counterarguments
Let’s see how these styles play out in practice, particularly in the context of a counterargument-rebuttal section, a critical component of any strong argumentative essay.
Sample #1: The Brawler’s Take-No-Prisoners Approach
If you’re a fighter at heart, you might frame your counterargument-rebuttal like a UFC match, where you aim to knock out your opponents:
*"Cheerleaders for the mantra to ‘follow your passion’ will be appalled by my support of Cal Newport’s argument that encouraging students to follow their passion is a disservice, leading them down a dead-end path of disappointment and failure. ‘How dare you steal the love and passion from those students?’ they will cry. ‘How dare you encourage them to become soulless mercenaries chasing the money trail? You’re nothing but a capitalist pig!’ But these critics have invested so much emotion into the Passion Myth that they’ve become as dangerous as the myth itself. They misconstrue Newport’s argument, wrongly claiming that he’s against passion when, in fact, Newport advocates for a passion rooted in hard work and preparation. The biggest tragedy is that basing a career on fleeting adolescent passions prevents people from finding authentic, meaningful passion—the kind cultivated over time through trial, error, and the mastery of one’s craft. Let’s dismiss these Passion Cheerleaders and embrace Newport’s craftsman mindset to find a passion that truly matters."*
Sample #2: The Peacemaker’s Kind, Well-Mannered Approach
If you’re more inclined toward diplomacy, your counterargument-rebuttal might look like this:
"It’s unfortunate that my opponents don’t share my support of Cal Newport’s argument that we should replace the Passion Hypothesis with the Craftsman Mindset. However, I believe I can alleviate their concerns by emphasizing that passion remains a key ingredient in the career search. What I’d like to clarify is the definition of passion—not as a fleeting emotion, but as something cultivated through trial and error, hard work, and focus over time. I hope we can come to a common understanding that Newport isn’t against passion, but rather advocates for replacing immature passion with a more mature, sustainable version."
Conclusion: Finding Your Voice in Argumentative Writing
Whether you’re a Brawler or a Peacemaker, the key to effective argumentative writing is to be authentic. Your style should reflect your personality, allowing you to connect with your readers in a way that feels true to who you are. By grounding your arguments in strong thesis statements, engaging with opposing views through well-crafted counterarguments, and choosing a rhetorical style that suits you, you’ll be well-equipped to write persuasive, compelling essays that resonate with your audience.
***
Understanding and Utilizing Signal Phrases in Academic Writing
What is a Signal Phrase?
A signal phrase is a tool that transitions your reader smoothly from your own writing to a credible source, ensuring a seamless integration of external information into your essay. These phrases are crucial for introducing quotes, paraphrases, or summaries, and they help maintain the flow of your argument while providing clear attribution to the original source.
Why Are Signal Phrases Important?
Signal phrases are vital for several reasons:
1. **Smooth Transitions**: They guide your reader from your voice to the voice of your source, making the transition natural and avoiding any abrupt "jolts" in the flow of your essay.
2. **Establishing Credibility**: By using signal phrases, you not only show that you’re incorporating reputable sources but also emphasize that your writing meets the rigorous standards of academic scholarship.
3. **Contextualizing Information**: Signal phrases help to clarify why you’re including the cited material, whether it’s to agree, disagree, or present a nuanced perspective. This clarity makes your argument stronger and more persuasive.
#### How Do Signal Phrases Strengthen Your Essay?
Signal phrases do more than just transition smoothly—they also:
- **Establish Authority**: By introducing a source with a signal phrase, you can highlight the credentials of the author, enhancing the credibility of your argument.
- **Provide Context**: Signal phrases allow you to set up the citation by explaining its relevance to your argument, whether it's to support, refute, or expand on your points.
- **Enhance Clarity**: They ensure that your readers understand when you are presenting your own ideas and when you are referencing someone else’s work.
#### Examples of Signal Phrases in Action
**To Show Disagreement:**
"Contrary to Yuval Noah Harari's assertion that foragers lived superior lives to farmers, culture critic Will Day Brosnan counters: 'Elsewhere, I wondered the extent to which Harari was projecting an idealistic (even Rousseauian) vision of a noble savage on pre-state peoples.'"
**To Show Agreement:**
"Echoing my assertion that Harari’s Noble Savage mythology is misguided, Will Day Brosnan writes: 'Harari’s depiction of a foraging lifestyle, unencumbered by the complexities and worries of civilization, could be seen as reactionary atavism.'"
**To Show Added Support:**
"Further strengthening the argument that not all calories are equal, Gary Taubes in *Good Calories, Bad Calories* presents compelling statistics showing…"
**To Bridge a Quotation with Your Own Claim:**
"We are mistaken if we believe our purpose on Earth is to pursue happiness. As John Mellencamp starkly observes: 'I don’t think we’re put on this earth to live happy lives. I think we’re put here to challenge ourselves physically, emotionally, intellectually.'"
**To Present a Cautionary Point:**
"Futurist Yuval Noah Harari cautions that in the coming century, we may evolve from Homo sapiens into a kind of robot sapien, raising ethical questions about our future."
#### Where to Place Your Signal Phrase
Varying the placement of your signal phrase can add sophistication to your writing:
- **Beginning**: "Yale Law professor Daniel Markovits argues in his essay 'How Life Became an Endless Terrible Competition' that privilege, not merit, is the dominant force in acquiring power."
- **Middle**: "Racism, sexism, and worker exploitation were rampant during the Agricultural Revolution, claims futurist Yuval Noah Harari, who boldly states that 'the Agricultural Revolution was the greatest crime against humanity.'"
- **End**: "Harari provocatively declares that 'the Agricultural Revolution is the greatest crime against humanity' (144)."
#### Following Up on Your Signal Phrase
After introducing a quotation or paraphrase, it's essential to explain its significance:
- "Harari is essentially arguing that the Agricultural Revolution marked a turning point that led to widespread human suffering."
- "In other words, Markovits is making the case that the notion of a meritocracy is largely a myth perpetuated by those in power."
#### Key Takeaways for Using Signal Phrases Effectively
1. **Vary Your Language**: Avoid overusing phrases like "says" or "writes." Instead, use a variety of verbs to introduce your sources (e.g., asserts, argues, contends).
2. **Place Strategically**: Experiment with placing your signal phrases at different points in the sentence to keep your writing dynamic.
3. **Establish Credibility**: Include the credentials of your sources in the signal phrase to bolster the authority of your essay.
4. **Cite Correctly**: Ensure you are following MLA format for in-text citations, which you can find through resources like Purdue Owl.
5. **Analyze What You Cite**: Don’t just drop in a quotation—follow it up with your analysis to show how it supports your argument.
By mastering the use of signal phrases, you can elevate your writing, making it more engaging, authoritative, and persuasive in any academic context.
Here’s a list of 10 effective signal phrases, each followed by an example sentence that demonstrates its use:
1. **According to [Author/Source]**
- *According to historian Yuval Noah Harari, the Agricultural Revolution was "the greatest crime against humanity."*
2. **[Author/Source] argues**
- *Daniel Markovits argues that meritocracy is a myth, as wealth, not talent, often determines success.*
3. **As [Author/Source] explains**
- *As sociologist Sherry Turkle explains, our reliance on technology has diminished our ability to engage in meaningful face-to-face conversations.*
4. **[Author/Source] observes**
- *Psychologist Carol Dweck observes that a growth mindset, rather than fixed intelligence, leads to long-term success.*
5. **[Author/Source] asserts**
- *Journalist Malcolm Gladwell asserts that mastery of a skill requires at least 10,000 hours of practice.*
6. **[Author/Source] contends**
- *Economist Thomas Piketty contends that income inequality is the defining challenge of our time.*
7. **[Author/Source] suggests**
- *Cultural critic Susan Sontag suggests that our obsession with photography has altered the way we experience reality.*
8. **In the words of [Author/Source]**
- *In the words of Albert Einstein, "Imagination is more important than knowledge."*
9. **[Author/Source] emphasizes**
- *Environmental scientist Rachel Carson emphasizes the urgent need to protect our planet from pollution.*
10. **[Author/Source] points out**
- *Philosopher Peter Singer points out that our moral obligations extend beyond our immediate communities to include the global poor.*
These signal phrases are versatile tools that help integrate quotes, paraphrases, and summaries smoothly into your writing, establishing credibility and providing context.
Review of Signal Phrases:
### Understanding and Using Signal Phrases
Signal phrases are essential tools in academic writing. They help transition the reader smoothly from your own voice to the voice of an expert or source you’re citing. By using signal phrases effectively, you establish credibility, provide context, and maintain the flow of your argument. Here’s how you can master the use of signal phrases.
#### What is a Signal Phrase?
A signal phrase introduces a quotation, paraphrase, or summary from another source. It indicates to the reader that you’re about to reference someone else’s work, which helps create a smooth transition between your ideas and the evidence you’re presenting.
#### Why Use Signal Phrases?
Signal phrases are crucial because they:
1. **Establish Authority:** By mentioning the source’s credentials, you reinforce the reliability of the information.
2. **Provide Context:** Signal phrases often include details that help the reader understand why the cited material is relevant.
3. **Smooth Transitions:** They prevent the reader from feeling jarred when moving from your voice to the cited material.
### Examples of Signal Phrases
**1. As a counterpoint to X,**
- *Example:* As a counterpoint to the optimistic view of social media’s benefits, John Smith argues that these platforms often exacerbate loneliness and anxiety.
**2. As a counterargument to my claim that X,**
- *Example:* As a counterargument to my claim that technology always enhances productivity, Jane Doe suggests that constant connectivity can actually decrease focus and efficiency.
**3. Giving support to my rebuttal that Writer A makes an erroneous contention, Writer B observes that . . .**
- *Example:* Giving support to my rebuttal that John Locke’s theory is flawed, Samuel Johnson observes that Locke’s assumptions about human nature are overly simplistic.
**4. Concurring with my assertion that X,**
- *Example:* Concurring with my assertion that education reform is necessary, Dr. Sarah Lee points out that current policies are outdated and fail to address the needs of modern students.
**5. Further supporting my contention that X,**
- *Example:* Further supporting my contention that climate change is accelerating, Professor James Green cites recent data showing a significant rise in global temperatures over the past decade.
**6. Writer X chronicles in her book. . . . As she observes:**
- *Example:* Historian Mary Davis chronicles in her book *The Fall of Empires* the factors that led to Rome’s decline. As she observes: “The overexpansion and lack of fiscal discipline were key contributors to the empire’s collapse.”
**7. The acclaimed best-selling writer, history professor, and futurist Yuval Noah Harari excoriates the Agricultural Revolution as "the greatest crime against humanity."**
- *Example:* The acclaimed best-selling writer, history professor, and futurist Yuval Noah Harari excoriates the Agricultural Revolution as "the greatest crime against humanity," arguing that it led to social hierarchies and widespread suffering.
**8. Lamenting that his students don't enjoy his music playlist in the writing lab, college English instructor Jeff McMahon observes in his blog *Obsession Matters*:**
- *Example:* Lamenting that his students don't enjoy his music playlist in the writing lab, college English instructor Jeff McMahon observes in his blog *Obsession Matters*: "Two-thirds of my students in writing lab don't hear my chill playlist over classroom speakers because they are hermetically sealed in their private earbud universe content to be masters of their own musical domain."
**9. "The Agricultural Revolution is the greatest crime against humanity," claims celebrated author and futurist Yuval Noah Harari in his best-selling book *Sapiens* (144).**
- *Example:* "The Agricultural Revolution is the greatest crime against humanity," claims celebrated author and futurist Yuval Noah Harari in his best-selling book *Sapiens* (144).
**10. Racism, sexism, worker exploitation, and pestilence afflicted the human race during the Agricultural Revolution, claims celebrated futurist Yuval Noah Harari, who goes on to make the bold claim that "the Agricultural Revolution was the greatest crime perpetrated against humanity."**
- *Example:* Racism, sexism, worker exploitation, and pestilence afflicted the human race during the Agricultural Revolution, claims celebrated futurist Yuval Noah Harari, who goes on to make the bold claim that "the Agricultural Revolution was the greatest crime perpetrated against humanity."
### Purpose of Credentials in Signal Phrases
Including credentials in your signal phrases helps establish the authority of your sources. By referencing an author’s background or expertise, you give more weight to the information being presented. For instance:
- *Example:* The acclaimed best-selling writer, history professor, and futurist Yuval Noah Harari excoriates the Agricultural Revolution as "the greatest crime against humanity."
This phrasing not only introduces Harari’s statement but also highlights his credibility as an expert in history and futurism.
### Placement of Signal Phrases
Signal phrases can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. Varying the placement helps avoid monotony and keeps your writing engaging.
- **Beginning:** “The Agricultural Revolution is the greatest crime against humanity,” claims celebrated author and futurist Yuval Noah Harari.
- **Middle:** Racism, sexism, worker exploitation, and pestilence afflicted the human race during the Agricultural Revolution, claims celebrated futurist Yuval Noah Harari.
- **End:** "The Agricultural Revolution is the greatest crime against humanity," claims celebrated author and futurist Yuval Noah Harari in his best-selling book *Sapiens* (144).
### Explaining the Cited Material
After presenting the quoted, summarized, or paraphrased material, it’s essential to explain its significance to your argument. Use transitions like:
- **Example:** “Writer X is essentially saying that...”
- **Example:** “In other words, X is arguing that...”
- **Example:** “By using these statistics, X is making the point that...”
### Conclusion
Mastering the use of signal phrases enhances your writing by establishing credibility, providing context, and ensuring smooth transitions between your ideas and your sources. By varying the placement and style of your signal phrases, you can create more dynamic and persuasive essays.
An excellent video on signal phrases and MLA in-text citations:
Crafting a Strong Thesis: The Importance of Referencing the Text and Author
When writing a thesis, it’s crucial to reference the author and text to establish authority and context. A thesis that lacks these references often falls flat, failing to convey the necessary depth and credibility. Let’s explore how you can strengthen your thesis by incorporating references to both the author and the text.
Example of a Weak Thesis
**Weak Thesis:**
The mantra “follow your passion” is dangerous not because passion is bad but because the definition of passion is vague, simplistic, and suggests an easy path to success.
This statement lacks context and fails to engage with the broader conversation about passion and career choices. It doesn’t tell the reader who is making this argument or why it matters.
#### Improved Thesis with Author and Text Reference
**Improved Thesis:**
The mantra “follow your passion,” Georgetown computer science professor Cal Newport argues in his blog article “The Passion Trap,” is dangerous not because passion is bad but because the definition of passion is vague, simplistic, and suggests an easy path to success.
By mentioning Cal Newport and his specific work, this thesis gains clarity, authority, and relevance. It signals to the reader that the argument is grounded in established research and positions the writer within an academic conversation.
#### Another Example of an Improved Thesis
**Another Example:**
In his best-selling book *So Good They Can’t Ignore You*, Georgetown computer science professor Cal Newport argues persuasively that the mantra “follow your passion” is dangerous not because passion is bad but because the definition of passion is vague, simplistic, and suggests an easy path to success.
This thesis further strengthens the argument by referencing both the author and the specific text, making it clear that the writer is engaging with Newport’s ideas in a substantive way.
### Sample Thesis Statements with Author and Text References
**Sample #1:**
While it should be self-evident that the over-simplistic mantra “follow your passion” for a career choice is fatuous, dangerous, and inaccurate, Cal Newport does us a great service by disemboweling this odious cliché because its sheer popularity has wreaked havoc on many college students, steering them away from the craftsman mindset and the complex, convoluted path that finding a true passion often requires—a path paved with blood, sweat, and tears.
**Sample #2:**
My issue with Cal Newport’s argument isn’t that it’s wrong; rather, my concern is that he has simply eviscerated one cliché and replaced it with another, presenting a self-help book filled with predictable platitudes about hard work, tenacity, and focus, which merely swaps out the passion myth for a new set of oversimplified ideals.
**Sample #3:**
Of course, “follow your passion” is a brainless, inane, and worthless slogan, which Newport rightly skewers with his rapier wit, but his roadmap to success fosters a false optimism about mastering a career—a path that requires the kind of privilege, educational foundation, and economic support that only a small fraction of Americans possess. His approach ignores the systemic inequalities that often derail even the most determined individuals.
**Sample #4:**
While the above writer correctly acknowledges that privilege and economic support can increase one’s chances of success, this truth doesn’t negate Newport’s argument that anyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can benefit from embracing the craftsman mindset over the empty notion of “following your passion.”
**Sample #5:**
Cal Newport offers a timely corrective to a society addicted to dopamine and superficial “passion” by dismantling the dangerous idea that we need to find a passion that perfectly aligns with our personality. Instead, he advocates for a more reliable path to success—discovering what we’re good at, elevating those skills to the realm of excellence, and having the patience to navigate the inevitable trial-and-error process before truly finding our footing.
### Conclusion
Incorporating the author and text into your thesis not only clarifies your argument but also anchors it within the context of an ongoing academic conversation. This approach enhances your essay’s credibility and helps you engage more deeply with the material, ultimately leading to a more compelling and persuasive argument.
Understanding the Difference Between Fake Passion and Real Passion
As I was discussing Cal Newport’s critique of the "Follow Your Passion" mantra with some of my students, I realized just how challenging this topic can be. It’s taken me five years of teaching this concept to truly grasp its depth, and today, I want to share that understanding with you.
When Newport warns against "following your passion," it’s important to recognize that he’s not dismissing passion altogether. Instead, he’s urging us to distinguish between fake passion and real passion.
#### Fake Passion
So, what exactly is fake passion?
- **Fake passion** is the fleeting interest that fades away after a few weeks.
- **Fake passion** is claiming you're passionate about something but never putting in the time or effort to make it a reality.
- **Fake passion** is like the person who says they love their spouse but forgets their anniversary.
Fake passion is all talk and no action. It’s a shallow commitment that lacks the substance needed to fuel true success.
#### Real Passion
On the other hand, what defines real passion?
- **Real passion** is showing up and doing the work consistently, even on days when you don’t feel like it.
- **Real passion** is continuously investing time in refining your skills and making constant improvements.
- **Real passion** is preparing yourself to achieve mastery in your craft.
Real passion understands the high stakes of life and is guided by mentors who provide the wisdom to succeed and avoid self-sabotage.
In this context, one student brought up Beyoncé as an example. There’s no doubt that Beyoncé is passionate about her art, but her passion is backed by relentless preparation. She’s not just passionate in theory—she’s committed to her craft through rigorous training, voice lessons, nutrition, dance, choreography, and marketing. Her success is no accident; it’s the result of real passion paired with professional-level preparation.
### Your Life Is About Constant Preparation
#### Building Momentum
When you consistently prepare and work hard, you create momentum. It’s like feeling the wind at your back—not because you’re lucky, but because you’ve set yourself up for success. Comedian Ron Funches once told Joe Rogan that his late-night comic inspiration only comes after a full day of writing. Without that day of drudgery, the spark of creativity wouldn’t have happened.
Hard work gives you a sense of control, confidence, and pride. It attracts like-minded people into your life and helps you avoid the “energy vampires” who drain your motivation. This mindset, once established, builds momentum that propels you forward.
But beware of complacency. If you relax for too long, entropy will set in. Entropy—a philosophical concept—refers to the natural tendency for things to fall apart, for order to give way to chaos, and for our highest selves to devolve into our lowest forms. This is why it’s crucial to stay focused, disciplined, and prepared. Entropy should serve as a constant reminder of the dangers of self-neglect and the importance of continuous effort.
### Conclusion
Remember, passion is an essential part of happiness and fulfillment, but without hard work and preparation, passion is just a paper tiger. As one of my students aptly put it, "Preparation is the true voice of passion." Well said.
This is the key takeaway: Real passion isn’t just about what you feel; it’s about what you do, how you prepare, and the effort you consistently put in to achieve mastery.
***
ChatGPT Response to Essay Prompt #1
### The Danger of "Follow Your Passion": Why the Craftsman Mindset is a Better Path to Success
In today’s society, the mantra "follow your passion" is often heralded as the ultimate career advice. Countless motivational speakers, career coaches, and even celebrities champion this idea, suggesting that if you simply find and pursue your passion, success and fulfillment will naturally follow. However, as Cal Newport argues in his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his article “The Passion Trap,” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto," this well-meaning advice can be dangerously misleading. Newport’s critique is further supported by Ali Abdaal in his video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why," where he echoes Newport’s concerns and advocates for a shift towards the craftsman mindset—a focus on developing skills and creating value over the pursuit of passion alone. While some may argue that passion is essential to drive one’s career, a closer examination reveals that the craftsman mindset provides a more reliable and sustainable foundation for long-term success and satisfaction.
### The Myth of Passion as a Career Compass
The idea that we should "follow our passion" suggests that each of us has a pre-existing, clearly defined passion just waiting to be discovered and that this passion should dictate our career choices. However, as Newport points out, this belief is not only simplistic but also potentially harmful. Newport argues that the concept of a singular passion is a myth for most people. He cites research indicating that very few people have a clear passion from a young age, and those who do often find that their interests change over time. This reality contradicts the notion that passion is a stable foundation upon which to build a career.
Moreover, the emphasis on finding a passion before starting a career can lead to paralysis and dissatisfaction. Many individuals become so focused on identifying their "true passion" that they fail to take meaningful steps towards career development. Newport calls this the "passion trap," where the search for passion becomes a hindrance rather than a help. Instead of exploring various interests and developing skills, individuals may waste valuable time waiting for a passion that may never materialize.
### The Craftsman Mindset: A Superior Alternative
In contrast to the passion-driven approach, Newport advocates for what he calls the craftsman mindset. This mindset prioritizes the development of rare and valuable skills over the pursuit of pre-existing passions. Newport argues that by focusing on becoming exceptionally good at something, individuals are more likely to find fulfillment and success in their careers. The craftsman mindset encourages people to take a proactive approach to their work, seeking opportunities to improve and excel, rather than waiting for passion to strike.
Ali Abdaal supports this view by highlighting how mastery and expertise can lead to passion, rather than the other way around. He explains that as individuals develop competence and receive positive feedback in their field, they often begin to feel passionate about their work. This process of cultivating passion through skill development is more reliable and grounded in reality than the pursuit of a nebulous, pre-existing passion.
The craftsman mindset also emphasizes the importance of creating value in the workplace. Newport argues that instead of asking "What can the world offer me?" individuals should ask "What can I offer the world?" This shift in perspective encourages people to focus on how they can contribute meaningfully to their field, which in turn makes them more valuable to employers and more satisfied with their work. By cultivating expertise and providing value, individuals are more likely to secure job opportunities and achieve long-term success.
### Counterargument: The Role of Passion in Motivation
Critics of Newport’s argument might contend that passion is a crucial motivator in achieving excellence and that without passion, work can become monotonous and uninspiring. They may argue that passion drives individuals to overcome obstacles, persevere through challenges, and achieve greatness in their chosen field. Without passion, they claim, one might excel technically but lack the emotional engagement needed to innovate and push boundaries.
### Rebuttal: Passion as a Byproduct of Mastery
While it is true that passion can be a powerful motivator, Newport and Abdaal suggest that this passion does not need to precede skill development. Instead, passion can emerge as a byproduct of mastery. When individuals invest time and effort into developing their skills, they often find that their work becomes more engaging and fulfilling. This growing competence and the recognition that comes with it can ignite a passion that is far more sustainable and deeply rooted than the fleeting emotions often associated with the pursuit of a pre-existing passion.
Furthermore, the craftsman mindset does not disregard the importance of passion altogether. Instead, it redefines how passion is cultivated. By focusing on skill acquisition and creating value, individuals can build a career that is both meaningful and motivating. This approach ensures that passion is based on tangible achievements and real-world contributions, rather than abstract desires.
### Conclusion
Cal Newport’s argument that "follow your passion" is dangerous career advice is a necessary corrective to the oversimplified and potentially harmful messages that dominate popular culture. While passion is often seen as essential for career success, Newport and Abdaal make a compelling case that passion should not be the starting point. Instead, they advocate for the craftsman mindset, which prioritizes skill development, value creation, and the cultivation of passion through mastery. This approach offers a more realistic and effective path to career success, one that is rooted in hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. By adopting the craftsman mindset, individuals can build careers that are not only successful but also deeply fulfilling.
***
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Essay
Weaknesses
1. **Overused, Stock Expressions and Language Choices:**
The essay relies heavily on phrases and expressions that are commonly used in writing generated by AI models like ChatGPT. Examples include "a more reliable and sustainable foundation," "focus on developing skills and creating value," and "a necessary corrective." These expressions, while not incorrect, are generic and lack the originality and personal touch that distinguishes high-quality student writing. This language often comes across as formulaic, making the essay feel more like a well-crafted template rather than a piece of writing with a unique voice.
**Why This Matters:**
Overused expressions can make an essay seem impersonal and disconnected from the writer's true voice. They can also make the writing appear superficial, as if the writer is relying on pre-packaged phrases rather than deeply engaging with the material. To elevate the essay, students should strive to use language that reflects their own thinking and perspective, avoiding clichés and stock phrases whenever possible.
2. **Lack of Evidence Using Quotations, Paraphrases, and In-Text Citations:**
The essay presents ideas and arguments that align with Cal Newport’s views but fails to back these points up with concrete evidence from Newport’s works or from the supporting video by Ali Abdaal. There are no direct quotations, paraphrases, or in-text citations that anchor the arguments in the original texts. This absence of specific evidence weakens the essay’s credibility and makes it less persuasive.
**Why This Matters:**
In academic writing, especially at the college level, it is crucial to demonstrate engagement with the sources being discussed. This not only shows that the writer has done their research but also allows the reader to verify and understand the basis of the writer’s arguments. Without quotations or paraphrased material that are properly cited, the essay reads like a summary rather than a critical analysis. Students should incorporate specific references to Newport’s articles, videos, and other relevant sources to strengthen their arguments.
3. **Generic Engagement with Cal Newport:**
The essay engages with Cal Newport’s ideas in a manner that is somewhat generic and surface-level. It outlines his main points but does not delve into a deeper analysis or critique. The writing lacks a strong authorial presence, meaning the writer’s own insights and interpretations are not as prominent as they should be. This makes the essay feel more like a Wikipedia entry, summarizing Newport’s work rather than critically engaging with it.
**Why This Matters:**
A college-level essay should go beyond simply summarizing an author’s work. It should engage with the material in a way that showcases the writer’s unique perspective, offering critical analysis, interpretation, and sometimes even questioning the author’s conclusions. This deeper engagement not only demonstrates a higher level of thinking but also makes the essay more compelling and original. Students should aim to bring their own voice and critical insights into the discussion, rather than simply echoing the ideas of the author.
### Conclusion
While the essay provides a clear overview of Cal Newport’s argument against following one’s passion, it falls short in several key areas. The use of generic, overused language, the lack of concrete evidence and citations, and the superficial engagement with Newport’s ideas all contribute to an essay that, while structurally sound, does not reach its full potential in terms of depth, originality, and academic rigor. To improve, students should focus on developing their own voice, incorporating specific evidence from their sources, and engaging more deeply with the material they are analyzing.
***
The Useful Purposes Achieved by the Essay
1. **The Response Provides a Good Outline:**
The essay serves as a strong framework for organizing ideas and arguments. It clearly delineates the main points: introducing the topic, discussing the myth of passion as a career compass, presenting the craftsman mindset as a superior alternative, addressing counterarguments, and concluding with a reaffirmation of Newport's stance. This structure is essential for developing a well-organized and coherent essay. Students can use this outline to build their own essays, ensuring that they cover all necessary aspects of the argument in a logical sequence.
2. **The Response is an Effective Pre-Writing Exercise:**
The essay functions as an excellent pre-writing exercise by helping to crystallize the main arguments and supporting points before diving into the more detailed writing process. It allows students to think through their position on Newport's argument and the supporting evidence they will need to incorporate. By engaging with the material in this way, students can better prepare themselves for the actual drafting process, reducing the likelihood of writer's block and ensuring that their final essay is more focused and persuasive.
3. **The Response Provides a Clear Summary of Newport's Argument:**
The essay effectively summarizes Cal Newport’s argument against the "follow your passion" mantra and in favor of the craftsman mindset. It distills the core ideas from Newport’s videos and articles, making them accessible and easy to understand. This clarity is crucial for readers who may not be familiar with Newport’s work. The essay serves as a helpful introduction to his ideas, which can then be expanded upon with more detailed analysis and evidence in the final essay.
4. **The Prose Shows the Importance of Clarity of Expression:**
The essay’s prose is straightforward and clear, demonstrating the importance of communicating ideas in a way that is easy for readers to follow. Clarity of expression is vital in academic writing, as it ensures that complex ideas are conveyed without confusion. This essay models how to present arguments in a direct and accessible manner, which is particularly useful for students who are learning to write more sophisticated essays. Clear writing not only helps the reader understand the argument but also strengthens the writer's credibility.
### Conclusion
The essay response serves multiple valuable purposes in the context of essay writing. It provides a well-structured outline that can guide the writing process, acts as a pre-writing exercise to clarify ideas, offers a concise summary of Newport's argument, and exemplifies the importance of clear and effective communication. These elements are crucial for developing a strong, persuasive argumentative essay, making the response a useful tool for students as they prepare to engage more deeply with their writing assignments.
***
I rewrote the ChatGPT prompt:
Write an argumentative essay that defends, refutes, or complicates Cal Newport’s claim from his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his online article “The Passion Trap” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" and Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why" that the career advice to follow your passion is dangerous and should be replaced by the craftsman mindset. Be sure to have a counterargument-rebuttal paragraph before your conclusion. For the above writing prompt, use my writing style as a college writing instructor, use in-text citations and signal phrases, and give valid URLs for external sources used. Try to avoid stock phrases.
This is an example of cheating on a college essay. I don't give you these instructions to cheat for college writing. I give you these instructions to help you effectively use ChatGPT for business, personal, and money-making enterprises, not college. For college writing, ChatGPT is a great editing and rewriting machine; it's a dishonest and ineffective "writing out of thin air machine."
ChatGPT Response:
### The Danger of "Follow Your Passion": Why the Craftsman Mindset is a More Reliable Path to Success
The phrase “follow your passion” has become a ubiquitous piece of career advice, promoted by motivational speakers, career counselors, and even celebrities as the key to achieving success and happiness. However, this well-meaning guidance can be dangerously misleading, as argued by Cal Newport in his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his article “The Passion Trap,” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto." Ali Abdaal, in his video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why," supports Newport’s critique and advocates for a more sustainable approach: the craftsman mindset. This mindset emphasizes the development of skills and the creation of value over the pursuit of passion alone. While some may argue that passion is essential for driving one's career, a closer examination reveals that the craftsman mindset offers a more reliable and practical foundation for long-term success and satisfaction.
### The Myth of "Passion" as a Career Compass
The popular belief that we should "follow our passion" suggests that each person has a pre-existing, clearly defined passion waiting to be discovered and that this passion should dictate career choices. However, as Newport argues in "The Passion Trap," this belief is both simplistic and potentially harmful. He asserts that the notion of a singular, lifelong passion is a myth for most people, supported by research showing that very few individuals have a clear passion from a young age, and those who do often see their interests evolve over time (Newport, 2012). This reality undermines the idea that passion is a stable foundation on which to build a career.
Moreover, the emphasis on finding a passion before starting a career can lead to paralysis and dissatisfaction. Newport terms this the "passion trap," where the search for passion becomes a hindrance rather than a help. Instead of taking meaningful steps toward career development, individuals may waste valuable time waiting for a passion that may never materialize (Newport, 2012). This is further supported by Ali Abdaal, who points out that waiting for a passion can prevent people from exploring various interests and developing the skills necessary for success (Abdaal, 2021).
### The Craftsman Mindset: A Superior Alternative
In contrast to the passion-driven approach, Newport advocates for what he calls the craftsman mindset. This mindset prioritizes the development of rare and valuable skills over the pursuit of pre-existing passions. Newport argues that by focusing on becoming exceptionally skilled at something, individuals are more likely to find fulfillment and success in their careers (Newport, 2012). The craftsman mindset encourages a proactive approach to work, where individuals seek opportunities to improve and excel, rather than waiting for passion to strike.
Abdaal echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that mastery and expertise can lead to passion, rather than the other way around (Abdaal, 2021). He explains that as individuals develop competence and receive positive feedback in their field, they often begin to feel passionate about their work. This process of cultivating passion through skill development is more grounded in reality than the pursuit of a nebulous, pre-existing passion.
The craftsman mindset also stresses the importance of creating value in the workplace. Newport suggests that instead of asking "What can the world offer me?" individuals should ask "What can I offer the world?" This shift in perspective encourages people to focus on how they can contribute meaningfully to their field, making them more valuable to employers and more satisfied with their work (Newport, 2012). By cultivating expertise and providing value, individuals are more likely to secure job opportunities and achieve long-term success.
### Counterargument: The Role of Passion in Motivation
Critics of Newport’s argument may contend that passion is a crucial motivator in achieving excellence and that without passion, work can become monotonous and uninspiring. They might argue that passion drives individuals to overcome obstacles, persevere through challenges, and achieve greatness in their chosen field. Without passion, they claim, one might excel technically but lack the emotional engagement needed to innovate and push boundaries.
### Rebuttal: Passion as a Byproduct of Mastery
While it is true that passion can be a powerful motivator, Newport and Abdaal argue that this passion does not need to precede skill development. Instead, they suggest that passion can emerge as a byproduct of mastery. As individuals invest time and effort into developing their skills, they often find their work becomes more engaging and fulfilling (Newport, 2012; Abdaal, 2021). This growing competence and the recognition that comes with it can ignite a passion that is far more sustainable and deeply rooted than the fleeting emotions often associated with the pursuit of a pre-existing passion.
Furthermore, the craftsman mindset does not disregard the importance of passion altogether. Rather, it redefines how passion is cultivated. By focusing on skill acquisition and creating value, individuals can build a career that is both meaningful and motivating. This approach ensures that passion is based on tangible achievements and real-world contributions, rather than abstract desires (Newport, 2012).
### Conclusion
Cal Newport’s critique of the "follow your passion" mantra is a necessary corrective to the oversimplified and potentially harmful messages that dominate popular culture. While passion is often seen as essential for career success, Newport and Abdaal make a compelling case that passion should not be the starting point. Instead, they advocate for the craftsman mindset, which prioritizes skill development, value creation, and the cultivation of passion through mastery. This approach offers a more realistic and effective path to career success, one that is rooted in hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. By adopting the craftsman mindset, individuals can build careers that are not only successful but also deeply fulfilling.
### References
Abdaal, A. (2021). *Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why.* YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHsOQT9f6XE
Newport, C. (2012). *The Passion Trap.* calnewport.com. http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/10/16/the-passion-trap-how-the-search-for-your-lifes-work-is-making-your-working-life-miserable/
Newport, C. (2012). *The Career Craftsman Manifesto.* calnewport.com. http://calnewport.com/blog/2012/09/18/the-career-craftsman-manifesto/
Newport, C. (2016). *Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion.* YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwOdU02SE0w
