Passion starts in the mind (not the brain).

I’ve been thinking a lot about how we expect kids to “find their passion” these days—like it’s this magical thing they’re supposed to stumble upon between math homework and brushing their teeth.

And to be honest, I get it. As a dad and entrepreneur, I’ve spent plenty of time chasing passions—and sometimes wondering if I even knew what mine really was. What I’m learning now is that passion doesn’t show up when you’re constantly on the go. It shows up when you slow down enough to hear yourself think.

This month, I’ve been diving into the work of Dr. Caroline Leaf, a clinical neuroscientist who studies the connection between the mind and the brain—and it’s kind of blowing my mind (no pun intended). She teaches that your brain is the tool, but your mind is the driver. And when it comes to passion, it’s your mind—your thoughts, emotions, and choices—that leads the way.

So if we want to help our kids grow into their purpose, we have to go deeper than skills or interests. We have to help them connect to what’s going on inside—and that starts with how they think.

Let’s explore that together this month. And next week, we’ll talk about one of the most powerful tools shaping their inner world: self-talk.

For now, let’s lay the foundation.

Ever wonder why some kids seem to “just know” what they love, while others struggle to name a single interest?

That’s because passion doesn’t begin with talent or opportunity—it begins in the mind.

Dr. Leaf typically uses her 4 levels of the mind framework to explain mental health, but we’re borrowing it to explore something just as powerful: how kids discover what lights them up inside.

Here’s how you can use it to help your child uncover their spark—one thought, feeling, and pattern at a time.

1. Nonconscious Mind – Watch what they repeat.

This is the deepest level—always on, always processing. It holds a lifetime of experiences, beliefs, and emotions—even things your child doesn’t consciously remember.

Passion often begins here, as invisible roots: something your child saw, heard, or experienced that left an imprint. But because it’s below awareness, they can’t talk about it yet.

💭 Pay attention to what they daydream about, role-play, or bring up unprompted. These quiet repetitions are your window into their inner world.

2. Subconscious Mind – Follow the feelings.

Here, the brain starts surfacing those nonconscious patterns through emotion—gut feelings, quick preferences, “I don’t know why, I just like it” vibes.

This is the bridge between what’s hidden and what’s becoming real. Passion shows up as feelings—excitement, curiosity, focus—even if your child still can’t explain why.

💭 Ask, “What’s something you enjoy for no reason?” or “What makes you feel happy even when you’re tired?” and let them answer without needing to explain why.

3. Conscious Mind – Help them name it.

This is where your child begins to think, reason, and express what they enjoy. It’s the stage where passion gets a voice.

The more they talk about what they love (or think they might love), the stronger the brain builds connections—and the more likely that passion will stick.

💭 Reflect their excitement. “I notice you always light up when you talk about that. Want to explore it more together?” This creates a safe space for conscious passion to grow.

4. Unconscious Mind – Support repetition.

Once your child does something enough, it drops into the unconscious—becoming part of their identity. They don’t have to think about doing it anymore. It just feels like who they are.

This is when passion sticks. But it only happens if they’re given room to repeat it without pressure.

💭 Make it part of the rhythm. If they love storytelling, let them record weekly stories. If it’s music, give them space to explore. It doesn’t have to be big—just consistent.

And if your child loves asking “why?” and you want to keep their curiosity alive, 🎧 check out this fun kids podcast that’s packed with trivia, surprising stories, and laugh-out-loud facts. Lighthearted learning like this can spark ideas in their subconscious—often before they even realize what they’re passionate about.

Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators

We’re excited to spotlight Sylvia Tam from Raising Empowered Kids at the Your Neurodiverse Homeschooling Summit! 🎉

Join Sylvia and Afsaneh Moradian, Founder of MLC Homeschool Coaching, as they share valuable insights on neurodiverse homeschooling. Sylvia’s focus is on empowering parents and creating tailored learning environments that celebrate each child's strengths.

Catch Sylvia’s session on APRIL 25th at 9:00 a.m. ET for actionable strategies to support your child’s growth. 🌱

🎥 Register now: www.mlccoaching.com/summit-registration

Let’s empower children and transform the homeschooling journey! 💪

Passion isn’t always loud. Sometimes it whispers—and your attention helps turn that whisper into a voice.

The more we help our kids notice those whispers, the more confident they become in exploring what lights them up from the inside out.

And next week, Tammy will dive into one of the most powerful tools shaping that inner world: self-talk—and how to make sure your child’s voice to themselves is just as encouraging as yours.

💬 Quick favor before you go: Have you voted yet? Your answers help us create exactly what you and your kids need most.

👉 Take the 30-sec survey for a chance to win a seat for you child at Camp SuperNova this summer!

We can’t wait to grow with you this month.