Personal Questions at Social Volunteer Event

I recently attended a large outdoor volunteer recognition event.  It was in a park and catered as a cookout.  For reference, my volunteer assignment is by myself and I interact very little, maybe 30 seconds each time, with other volunteers or employees.  Thus, I attend the recognition by myself and sit with people I meet for first time. 

By chance, I usually sit at a table where people have met for the first time.  The conversations are usually superficial, like where does one volunteer, and enjoyable.  This year I sat with a group where the three of then women knew each other well.  After sharing where I volunteered, I mostly listened to the conversation, about various topics, sports, kids, volunteer opportunities.  

Then the most talkative of the women turned to me and asked what I was passionate about.   First, I wasn't ready for anything other than small talk, or chit chat conversations.  Second, I wasn't interested in sharing my passions with strangers that I just met, like finances, taxes, retirement income, etc. I froze and she tried to help me by offering my volunteer work area.   Finally,  I said, "I really don't have anything I'm passionate about," which led to her joking she was passionate about the volunteer work she did.

Afterwards, I thought about this and concluded I ought to have a ready response in the future.  

• I'm passionate about investments, income and taxes.  True, but it sounds too nerdy.  I didn't think briefly about giving this answer, but decided not to do so. I didn't feel it was  a good answer for people that were strangers.
• I'm passionate about helping my kids to be successful.  True and probably relevant with a group of women, but not my style.
• I'm passionate about making it to the next day.   Yeah, that's me also, but probably too cynical for a social discussion.
• I'm not passionate about any area.  What are you passionate about?  I think this would have been the best answer to strangers.   Tosses the focus back to the original requester, which I feel is appropriate.

Yeah, next time I'll be ready with the fourth option, which I feel is best in the situation.

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This is not financial nor socializing advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

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