Should you chase your passion or get a job?

In this article, we aim to explore the dilemma of pursuing one’s passion versus opting for a conventional job. Answering this question isn’t straightforward and varies from person to person.

Frequently, a blend of both approaches is advisable. However, ultimately, it’s crucial to heed one’s sense of purpose, as we’ll delve into in this article.

Introduction

This topic arose from a lengthy response I encountered on Quora.com, which essentially suggested that one should prioritize earning money to gain the freedom to pursue their passion.

While this perspective may seem logical and practical, I believe it overlooks certain aspects such as the value of time, the finite nature of life and competition.

My personal thoughts on it

If I grasp the essence of this concept correctly, I hold a different viewpoint, particularly regarding passion. Passion, akin to taste and admiration, is undeniably authentic and beyond our control. It serves as our guiding compass, directing us towards our true north.

Earning credits to spend it on what we really want to do

Previously, I shared the belief that the most pragmatic approach was to focus on making money and buying time, a strategy at which I excelled.

I automated income streams and prolonged their existence as much as possible. However, my perspective shifted as I realized that time and enjoying the journey are paramount to finding peace in our current circumstances.

The competition is not the same

While it is feasible to monetize one’s passion, it is undeniably more challenging and competitive than pursuing a job devoid of meaning—something one wouldn’t willingly do if not compensated. Often, it necessitates enduring hardships and developing unique skills rather than fit the bill by conforming to the culture and being agreeable enough to accept to follow someone else rules and dream.

This is why many individuals embark on this journey sooner rather than later, leveraging their innate abilities, be they intellectual or physical.

Find your passion at a young age

Successful individuals, even prodigies like Mozart, typically commence their journey at a young age, honing their skills under the tutelage of mentors.

Hence, if you believe in your capabilities, it is imperative to wholeheartedly commit to your passion from an early age, ideally during childhood, to attain the requisite level of proficiency by your twenties. Over time, you can refine your passion into a unique skill set valued by others.

You’ll never push far enough if you don’t have genuine motivation

Passion is largely beyond our control; it truly embodies what gives our lives meaning. I believe that if someone is willing to engage in an activity, whether it’s paid or not, that’s the best indicator of where they will find their purpose.

For instance, I have invested a significant amount of money in filmmaking and photography, and I’ve never once viewed it as a chore or have any regrets. Even after decades, I continue to pursue it without any need for external motivation.

If you aim to go far, you’ll require genuine intrinsic motivation along with the discipline to drive yourself forward.

The drawbacks of having a regular job

Engaging in a job devoid of inspiration can have detrimental effects, gradually eroding your passion, ambition, and health, and ultimately depriving you of life’s adventures, potentially extinguishing your soul.

Meanwhile, those who wholeheartedly pursue their passions forge ahead, leaving latecomers struggling to catch up.

The Pareto distribution

Statistics show that only 2% of the population pursue careers or jobs they are passionate about (according to the Pareto distribution).

These individuals are characterized by their lack of a fallback plan and unwavering determination to defy obstacles. They dedicate themselves to pushing boundaries, even when no one is watching.

There is a countdown

Delaying pursuit of your passion until you feel financially secure or until familial responsibilities diminish is often too late. Moreover, managing passive income streams can prove to be a full-time endeavor.

While it is possible to strike a balance and excel in both pursuits, those lacking passion may struggle to push their limits daily.

Decline is inevitable

Failure to seize opportunities when they arise may result in missed chances. Physical and mental decline typically sets in around age 60, making it imperative to act while in your prime, ideally in your twenties or thirties.

Pursuing your aspirations during this period can shape the trajectory of your life in alignment with your desires. More important it will give you the life that you really want when it matters the most.

Most people should strive for balance

However, achieving this requires a willingness to undertake what the majority are not prepared to do, including sacrifices. While striving for balance is commendable for most, only a select few attain mastery in their chosen domain. Balance is a path that promises a more comfortable existence.

Passion doesn’t mean pleasure but meaning

There’s a misconception that passion solely revolves around pleasure, but this notion is flawed. Passion is akin to embarking on a meaningful adventure; like any adventure, it entails challenges and obstacles. Perhaps even the ones that require you to become better.

Yet, amidst these trials, one may discover profound meaning that fuels their perseverance along the journey, leading them to ultimately achieve their desired goals.

Conclusion

Given that only two percent of individuals have a career while the majority have jobs, it’s evident that pursuing one’s passion isn’t a privilege afforded to everyone.

Reaching the required level of competence to compete in the marketplace is undeniably challenging. However, there are always opportunities within a field. For instance, if you’re a filmmaker, you can earn income by producing corporate interviews.

This implies that initially, you’ll likely juggle both pursuits. However, eventually, one must fully commit and wholeheartedly pursue their passion. The only way to truly learn and grow is by immersing oneself in the endeavor day in and day out and for this you’ll need to take risks and be resilient.

Otherwise you’ll give up and really have to have a job for the rest of your life which is fine. You just have to ask your self, do you want to walk in a flat road or climb a mountain and have an adventure ?

Alternatively, there are occasions when external factors beyond your control might compel you to relinquish your passion. In such circumstances, perhaps the most prudent course of action would be to discover passion in whatever endeavor you find yourself engaged in.

Hence, the paramount aspect is executing your job with fervor to bring the passion into existence.