Is following your passion really worth it?

“Do what you love :heart_decoration: and you will never work a day in your life” sounds familiar right? We have heard it in TEDx talks, read it in self-help bestsellers and listened to it at every other graduation ceremony. But does “follow your passion” work for all? Does this cliché do more harm than good?

Human beings are dynamic. Our interests evolve with time, education and life experiences. My own journey has been anything, but linear. I was convinced my calling was to be a Bharatnatyam dancer :woman_dancing: , then a pilot :woman_pilot: , and later, a cardiologist :anatomical_heart:. Today, I am a Dental Surgeon :tooth: :woman_health_worker: . I’ve realized that life doesn’t always follow our initial blueprints; it takes its own course.

Why “Follow your passion” isn’t the only way to success?

· Passions evolve:chart_increasing: : Our childhood dreams were based on limited menu of options and our limited understanding of life.

· Passion V/s Proficiency:+1: : We may not be good at what we are passionate about. Recognizing our strengths may help us discover ourselves than chasing a fleeting interest.

· Privilege factor:thinking: : Following your passion is a luxury. Not everyone has the financial safety net to pursue a low income calling or spending years finding themselves.

· Why can’t your passion be a hobby instead? Passion may lose its charm when pursued every day without a miss.

· Passion V/s Monetization :dollar_banknote: : Not every passion has a high market value. The economy may not reward it with a livable wage.

Conclusion :

Does following your passion helps you lead a fulfilled life in terms of relationships, financial stability and good health? It definitely takes more than passion to a have a sustainable career and a happy life.

What are your views on it? :thinking:

MBH/AB

MBH