Why Working on What You Love is the Key to Long-Term Career Satisfaction?

When we consider the economic and societal constraints that surround us, the thought of “settling” in a job might be appealing. However, this option frequently results in dissatisfaction, burnout, and a lack of motivation. Instead, pursuing what you truly enjoy is the key to professional success and personal fulfilment.

One of the major advantages of working in a sector that you are passionate about is that you will be more productive. When you’re doing something you enjoy, it doesn’t seem like work; you’re anxious to get started, and the hours pass quickly. This degree of excitement and desire may be contagious, encouraging others and fostering a great work atmosphere.

Consider the case of someone who enjoys writing. He has always wanted to be an author but spent years working in finance, feeling dissatisfied and uninspired. Finally, he decides to take a risk and begin working on the novel on weekends. Despite the fact that he is now working longer hours overall, he is energised and thrilled about his new project, and this flows over into their workweek. His coworkers note that he is more focused, innovative, and efficient. As a consequence of doing what they love, individuals are offered greater responsibility, promotions, and other opportunities.

There are several examples of successful individuals who pursued their passion and achieved tremendous success. J.K. Rowling, for example, was working as a researcher and multilingual secretary when she began writing the Harry Potter series. Despite several publisher rejections, she never gave up on her idea, and the series went on to become one of the most popular and beloved book franchises in history. Another example is Elon Musk, who has said that despite several failures and hurdles, he followed his love for technology and business. He is now one of the world’s most successful and inventive entrepreneurs, with companies such as Tesla and SpaceX.

In addition to higher productivity, following your passion may lead to better achievement and professional happiness. You are more likely to be involved in your job, to take chances, and to be creative when you are doing something you genuinely like. This may result in creativity, fresh ideas, and breakthroughs that set you apart from the competition in your sector.

Consider the example of Steve Jobs. Jobs famously skipped college to pursue his love for technology and business, starting Apple in his garage with his friend Steve Wozniak. Despite several setbacks and disappointments, Steve never lost his enthusiasm or vision, and he went on to revolutionise the field of technology with breakthroughs such as the iPhone, iPod, and iPad.

Those who accept jobs that do not align with their interests, on the other hand, may experience feelings of burnout, dissatisfaction, and a lack of fulfilment. They may get caught in a job that does not enable them to develop, learn, or feel satisfied, resulting in feelings of stagnation and demotivation. This may have implications for their mental health, relationships, and general quality of life.

Exploring your hobbies and passions early in your career is one strategy to avoid settling into a job. Take some time to consider what actually fascinates you and what you are excellent at, and then look for chances to follow those interests. This might include enrolling in courses or training programmes, attending networking events or conferences, or seeking out mentors to help you along the way.

Consider the case of Erin Meyer, a professor and author specialising in cross-cultural management. Meyer began her career in theatre but soon realised that her true love lay in investigating the intricacies of cultural differences in the workplace. She returned to school to get a business degree, ultimately becoming a professor at INSEAD, where she started investigating cross-cultural management. Meyer’s enthusiasm for this subject has resulted in several successful publications, speaking appearances, and consulting opportunities, all because she followed what she was passionate about.

Another method to prevent settling is to be open to changing careers if your present work is not satisfying your desires. This may necessitate taking chances and making difficult choices, but it may lead to more satisfaction and success in the long term.

Take, for example, the story of Sheryl Sandberg. Sandberg started her career in government before transitioning to the technology business, where she worked for Google before joining Facebook as Chief Operating Officer. However, following her husband’s untimely death, Sandberg began to reconsider her priorities and passions, eventually writing the best-selling book “Option B” about resilience and grief. Sandberg’s decision to pivot her career and follow her love for helping others has resulted in a new chapter in her professional life, and her work continues to inspire others.

There are several examples in movies and television of characters who pursue their interests and succeed. Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher in the TV programme “Breaking Bad,” is unsatisfied and underpaid. He starts cooking methamphetamine on the side to support his family, but soon gets addicted to the rush of the job. While Walter’s actions are ultimately destructive, his love of chemistry and desire to be recognised for his abilities drive him to achieve his objectives at any cost.

Another example from popular culture is the film “The Pursuit of Happyness,” which follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesperson who aspires to be a stockbroker. Gardner never loses sight of his aim, despite countless challenges and disappointments, including homelessness. His interest in money, as well as his desire to provide for his kids, motivated him to work harder and smarter, ultimately leading to a successful career as a stockbroker.

Furthermore, settling for a job that does not match your interests might lead to dissatisfaction, burnout, and a lack of desire. Pursuing your true passion may result in enhanced productivity, success, and work happiness. It is never too late to pursue your hobbies, take chances, and, if required, pivot your career. You may develop a satisfying and gratifying career that provides you with pleasure and purpose by doing so.

As the saying goes, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Article first published in my profile in?Medium