Follow your Heart

I was listening to a parent talk to his child about her future.  She wanted to be an artist and he wanted her to have a career in technology.  She was dead set against his choice for her.  When she was a little girl, I remember him telling me how artistically gifted she was.  Now all of a sudden it was not good enough.  She tried to explain that she would not be happy with his choice for her.  She could not find anything passionate about his choice.  He argued she will never be out of a job and will make great money.  That was not enough for her.

 I understand her point.  How many people study this and become that?  How many people actually use the degree they worked hard and paid for?  Ask some of your friends and colleagues.  How many use their degrees?  Many do not.  That is sad unless it is by choice.  How many people are miserable in their choice of career er job.  Now it’s only a job because you get up, get dressed, go to work and come home.  Where is the passion?  Most people I know have settled for a job instead of the career they originally wanted.  It is sad.  They look miserable. How about those who have “a job” and a bad attitude.  We see this everywhere.  Think about someone like Vera Wang.  I’m sure she has her bad days but I bet nothing can compare to the fact that she gets up every day doing what she loves to do best.  Joel Osteen the same story.  I actually know people who studied for a career and are working in their chosen industry.  Some are making great money and some are making a decent salary.  Do you know what I notice about these people?  Big money small money did not matter.  They are generally happier than those who compromised.

We compromise for different reasons.   Life circumstances can change in an instant and alter our path.  But let’s not let go of our dreams.  If your career choice is still nagging you, look at your life and see how you can make changes.  You may be surprised.  You may be able to find your way back because of your life and job experiences.  There may be an unconventional path back to your original plan.  Life is short and full of surprises.  Go for it!  Getting back to my original story, I talked to her father and reminded him of what he said years ago.  He agreed.  I told him if she followed her heart the money would follow.  Well now we are in the let’s see phase.  Always strive to follow your heart.  The universe will take care of the rest. 

Sigrid Channer