The first image that comes to mind is a steamy love affair. But that's not what this is about. Passion can be found at many levels, even in the work you do every day.

My manager came over to me one day to discuss an email I sent and copied him on. I was pretty harsh, even scolding in my tone. It was about a report that this person was supposed to complete. He didn't do it and tried to have me do his work for him. And, it was two weeks late.

My manager started the conversation by saying "I know you're passionate about your work..." At first I thought that was an odd thing to say. Then I realized that I am passionate about my work. I like things done properly the first time. And, I also don't like people who are lazy or otherwise can not do their assigned work. I'm not a manager, but I still have a heavy hand in the work production and project completion.

The question is, is this good or bad? Can someone care too much about the success of a project? Is it a bad thing to be emotional about work? Or, is this a necessary component of concern, pride, or professionalism?

I don't think it's bad. Of course, there are limits and everything boils down to how much. I disagreed with my boss's assessment, and told him. I didn't disagree with his first statement that I am passionate about my work. But I do believe that I had every right to send that email. In fact, without peer pressure and a team spirit to self monitor any project, the success of that project is highly doubtful.

Anyhow, that's my opinion. And that was one day in the life of ...