I was wondering the other day how I would guide my kids if they ask me what is more important in a job, passion or pay?
Suppose they are passionate about an interest, but it really doesn’t pay that well, should they pursue the interest or get a good paying job?
When I talk of a good paying job I mean a job were you can provide well for you (and your family) without spiraling into consumer debt just to stay alive. And passion is probably best describe as something a purpose that brings joy to your heart, does good and makes you feel alive.
Obviously if you can have both you are incredibly fortunate, but in reality few people have both.
So which should it be?
Firstly seek both. Take a hit on a high paying job and take the job that you are passionate about. Just make sure you can live within your pay comfortably because nothing kills passion more quickly than money problems.
Secondly, if you must choose one or the other. Choose Pay, so long as the job doesn’t suck all the life out of you. Choose a good paying job that provides for your needs AND leaves you with time and energy to pursue your passion.
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Keeping your head above water financially is important, but so is pursuing a passion. I know many people who have chosen huge money over passion and grumble about their work most times I see them. Their pay may be good, they may have everything they need, but that lack the joy that comes from chasing their passion.
Passion or Pay … which would you pick?