Do more of what you love

"I don't want to have a normal nine-to-five job when I grow up," I authoritatively told my mum as we were sitting in a supermarket car park. I was 10 years old and I remember making a decision at that point on to carve out my own career trajectory. For the most part that has been the case but, as I graduated and was flung into the world of work, there were times when I felt I ignored the wishes of this inner 10 year old. That's not necessarily a bad thing but when someone comes to me feeling a little lost about their career, we sometimes start with the question: "What did you want to be when you were younger?"

As a kid, this question might have sparked our dreams and aspirations. Back then, our responses might have ranged from firefighters to teachers to rock stars. For me, it was working as a trapeze artist and on a cruise liner. Fun, adventurous, novel, movement and creativity! As we journey through life, we find that our path often takes unexpected turns, and our goals evolve.

One of the most profound lessons I've learned on my own life's journey is the importance of doing what you love. It's not merely a cliché; it's a guiding principle that can transform your existence. When you find yourself immersed in work that resonates with your passions, the world takes on a different hue.

Passion is a magnetic force that draws us towards our true calling. It propels us forward, even when the path is uncertain and challenging.

The pursuit of what we love may require sacrifices, like forsaking the security of a steady paycheck, but these sacrifices are often the stepping stones to a healthier paycheck, more skills and talents and the opportunity for discovering and fulfilment that we haven't had so far.

Consider the individuals who have transformed their cherished hobbies into thriving businesses. They dared to take the leap, to turn their dreams into reality. And while the journey may not have been easy, their unwavering passion guided them through the ups and downs, ultimately leading to success. Their stories serve as a testament to the incredible power of doing what you love.

No job or business is without its imperfections. Challenges and setbacks are an inevitable part of any endeavour. However, when you genuinely enjoy what you do, these obstacles become opportunities for growth and learning. They cease to be burdens and start to feel like essential milestones on the path to self-discovery and achievement.

If you find yourself in a job or situation that leaves you discontented, it's never too late to seek change. The world is brimming with possibilities, waiting for you to explore and claim your rightful place.

If you're finding it hard to take those steps forward then hiring a coach can help you. They can help you work through the beliefs and uncertainty which might be holding you back, and help you take those initial steps towards identifying what truly resonates with you. It might even take a bit of time to pinpoint your calling and even longer to realise it fully but, remember, the journey itself is an invaluable part of the process.

As someone who has embarked on this journey, I can attest that the pursuit of one's passion is worth every ounce of effort. The countless hours of research, the dedication to honing one's skills, and the hands-on experience all contribute to personal growth and fulfilment. When you follow your heart, you take control of your destiny, and there is no greater feeling than that.

So, do what you love, and love what you do, regardless of what that may be. This is not a mere platitude; it's a blueprint for a happier, more enriching life. When you engage in work that resonates with your soul, you become a beacon of enthusiasm, radiating your passion to others. You'll find that your conversations with friends and colleagues become infused with genuine excitement as you share your experiences and discoveries.

Moreover, doing what you love leads you to cross paths with fascinating people who share your interests and values. These connections can be transformative, both personally and professionally, as they open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. The relationships forged on this journey often become lifelong connections that enrich your life in ways you never imagined.

And remember, it's never too late to embark on something new - it just might look a little different to how you first anticipated it. Whether you're already living your dream or seeking your true calling, the key is to embrace the process, savour every moment, and stay steadfast in your pursuit of what you love.