The article examines passion as a mental phenomenon. Based on the conceptualization proposed by L.V. Kulikov, passion is considered as a сore phenomenon of personality, as a tendency to volitional tension and the ability to activate great energy potential. Manifestation of passion is reflected in the internal and external activity of the individual and can be presented as a kind of catalyst for volitional processes. The purpose of the survey was to identify the features of passion as a mental phenomenon in the personal experience of the individual. The results of two independent empirical studies are presented. The analyzed material includes 15 in-depth interviews and survey data of the original questionnaire developed to identify the severity of passion (n = 61). The ideas about the essence and characteristics of passion in everyday consciousness are considered. In reflexive self-analysis of the personality, passion is an important component of one's own authenticity and individuality. In the individual experience of a person, passion is reflected as a phenomenon with antagonistic affective characteristics. According to the results of the study, there are no significant differences between the intensity of passion and gender characteristics. In addition, respondents classified as early and late adults demonstrate more pronounced indicators of passion compared to younger people