How do I know what my passion is?

Your passion is what you do naturally, easily and well. You don’t even have to think about what you are doing; you just do it. This activity is so fascinating you can't stop thinking about it. But it's hard to imagine that people will pay you to solve the problems that intrigue you, and yet, that's precisely how you will make money and find fulfillment. Additionally, you may take your talent for granted, thinking everyone can do what you do. In fact, you may feel guilty about getting paid for what comes easily to you. Strangely enough, "I don't deserve this," is a common reaction to the prosperity that comes when you succeed at what you love. 

What is the difference between a personal interest or hobby and passion?

Passion is what you think is important not only for yourself but also for others, as when you read a good book and you want everyone to read it. Or let's say you love to organize, and you think everyone could benefit from mastering the details of life. A hobby or personal interest is just for you, for your own pleasure; you are not interested in doing it for others. Notice what you do that helps others to improve, learn and grow, or that entertains or inspires them to take action. That activity is your passion. All you need to do is figure how how to get paid for what you  are already doing for free.

Start with small steps: first, be sure that you are not using your kids, the mortgage and bills as excuses for not taking the risks that scare you. Next, set aside time every day to think about when you are happy and productive Make a list of the times when you exceeded others' expectations. No one told you to work harder, you just did it. Maybe you need to work for yourself, or for a smaller organization where you can wear many hats, as opposed to being in a corporation. Keep in mind that finding your niche in work is a process - like Goldilocks, it may take several tries to get it right.

Meanwhile, cut back on overhead, throw away your credit cards except for the one you pay off every month, if need be sell the house and move to a less expensive place. Remember  the best example you can give to your children is to do what you love with all your heart and soul. The worst example is to stay in a job or business you hate and complain about it. You don't want your children to blame themselves for your unhappiness.