Discovering and pursuing a career that you genuinely enjoy can be transformative, as our careers take up a considerable portion of our lives. It is essential to do what you love and be in a profession that brings you genuine happiness, rather than merely doing what pays the bills.

Embracing the mantra “do what you love” can lead to a fulfilling and happy life. When you choose to do what you love, you’re more likely to excel in your chosen profession and find satisfaction in your day-to-day work.

In the past, people believed that it was acceptable to settle for a job that paid the bills, even if it didn’t bring happiness. Although happiness can’t be cashed in at the bank, doing what you love is crucial for making the most of the life you’re living now. When you prioritize doing what you love, you’re investing in your long-term well-being and overall happiness.

If you find yourself in a situation where your education and experience qualify you for a field you no longer enjoy, there are steps you can take to transition to a career where you can truly do what you love. For those with little or no financial obligations or who are young enough to rethink their path, the following tips will help you find a career that allows you to do what you love.

First things first – To Do What You Love, Identify Your Passions and Skills

Start by making a comprehensive list of activities you enjoy doing, and be sure to highlight those where you can do what you love. Then, cross out those things you genuinely love but might not excel at. Next, eliminate the items you enjoy and are great at, but cannot earn a living from (e.g., being the best beer-pong player may be fun, but it’s not a viable career).

With only realistic options remaining in terms of talent and earning potential, map your skills to potential careers. Then, make decisions on what you’re willing and able to do to enter those fields. For example, if medicine is on your list, are you prepared to attend school for 7+ years? If not, cross it off. Your list should now be significantly shorter and focused on careers where you can do what you love.

Rate Your Options

Assign points to the remaining items on your list based on what’s important to you, such as:

• Money – potential earnings in this career.
• Flexibility – work hours, remote work opportunities.
• Work Hours – shift work (nights, weekends), 8-hour or 12-hour workdays.
• Non-monetary Rewards – free accommodation, education, staff discounts, incentive trips, etc.
• Enjoyability – the primary goal is to do what you love, so how much do you think you’ll enjoy the job based on role requirements and responsibilities?

Keep it real – Consider Personal Preferences and Limitations

Now that you’ve found the right career, it’s time to consider if it’s the right fit for you. For example, you may be a great listener and love helping people, but if you tend to carry others’ burdens, a career in psychology might not suit you. Weigh the pros and cons of your choice based on personal preferences and abilities or limitations, and make sure it’s a career where you can truly do what you love.

How bad do you want it? Determine Your Commitment

Are you willing to make personal sacrifices to do what you love in your career? Pursuing your passion may require financial sacrifices if further education is necessary. You might need to sacrifice your free time, temporarily giving up favorite TV shows or social activities. To gain experience in your chosen field, you may need to do voluntary work, as some companies are hesitant to hire inexperienced individuals.

Prepare for Success

• Research companies that interest you and are hiring in the field where you can do what you love.
• Update your résumé with your newly acquired skills and experience, emphasizing your passion to do what you love.
• Polish your interview skills, ensuring you can articulate why doing what you love is essential to your success.
• Send out your résumé to companies that align with your passion and career goals.

Go Get Your Dream Career

Having worked hard to reach this point, you deserve to be in a career where you can do what you love. Your determination and preparation make you an asset to any company. Embrace the philosophy of “do what you love” and pursue happiness in your chosen profession. Remember, a positive attitude goes a long way in achieving happiness, and doing what you love is a vital ingredient for long-term satisfaction in your career.

Remember, a positive attitude goes a long way in attaining happiness.