When Passion Meets Purpose explores how choosing the right career can shape a truly happy life. Beginning with the story of Rahul Patel, it highlights how chasing others’ dreams can lead to frustration and wasted potential. In a world full of choices, the key is not more options but more clarity. Blending insights from Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and personal experience, the talk reveals that real success isn’t just about money or status — it’s about finding joy, purpose, and growth in what you do. It encourages self-reflection, using tools like SWOT analysis, to align passion with strength. The takeaway is simple: when your heart and work align, happiness follows — and life stops feeling like work. • Mr. Ashok Kumar, distinguished IPS officer (1989 batch) from Kurana, Panipat, is an IIT Delhi B.Tech (1986) and M.Tech (1988) alumnus • Served 30+ years in UP & Uttarakhand, handling sensitive districts like Allahabad, Aligarh, Haridwar • Held key roles: DGP Uttarakhand (2020–23), IG Garhwal & Kumaun, Director Vigilance, Chief of Intelligence & Security, DG Crime, Law & Order • On deputation with CRPF& BSF, managed Naxal issues and Indo-Pak/Bangladesh borders • Played a key role in eliminating terrorism from Tarai, led Kumbh Mela & Kanwar Yatra • Launched Operation Mukti to educate street children (‘भिक्षा नहीं शिक्षा दो’) • Served with UN Mission in Kosovo (2001) • Recipient of President’s Police Medal, UN Medal, Indian Police Medal, Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant Award, IIT Delhi Alumni Award • Author of books on policing, security, ethics & UPSC prep • Expert in crime control, intelligence, cyber security & motivational speaking • Represented India in World Badminton Championships This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx