In honor of Independence Day, I thought I’d share a story about some of the best advice I ever received regarding the choices we make in our professional lives.
A few years ago when my college career had taken me through numerous majors (from Fine Arts and Philosophy, all the way to traditional Marketing) I had lunch with an old family friend who was positively baffled by the attitude held by “all the people my age”. I complained that I’d never find a rewarding job that would pay the bills and offer security. His remark about my short sightedness was simple and remains one of the sagest observations about the way many people approach their careers.
“I just don’t get it. Why on earth are you kids stuck on this notion that you can’t do what you love doing for a living?”
After my initial reaction of youthful pride subsided (What could THIS guy possibly know about MY life?) it dawned on me that his comment challenges a prevailing assumption that doing something you are passionate about will never translate into a real career. In a country that bestows a wide range of freedoms upon its citizens, why would you condemn yourself to a career or job that doesn’t satisfy any of your personal passions?
You have the freedom to explore new careers and industries whether you are fresh out of college or 40 years into the 9 to 5. You also have the freedom to honor what truly motivates you and makes you excited to get out of bed every morning. With all this in mind, shouldn’t your job be to love your job?
At Onward Search, we think the answer is a resounding yes! We are driven by connecting talented individuals with professional opportunities that will cultivate their passions and take their careers to new heights. We want to help you find a job you love because that’s what we love about our jobs.
As you celebrate this nation’s independence this weekend, ask yourself if you’re standing up for your right to pursue happiness, particularly in your professional life. You have the freedom to do what you love to do, so go after it, whatever it is. The founding members of this nation would congratulate you if you did.
