Most high school and college students contemplate a career choice. Many feel the stress of becoming successful and living up to expectations set by themselves, their families and society.

These are all difficult decisions.

So, should people choose careers based on income or what they are passionate about?

Today's cost of living has become more and more expensive. Adults are faced with many different expenses that come with living on their own. People worry about being able to support themselves in the "real world," and they choose jobs based on a paycheck rather then their passion.

Although this makes sense, one might want to choose something that is thoroughly enjoyable. After all, what is more important: making more money or doing what one loves and being happy?

It has been said that if one loves what they do, they will never work a single day in their life.

In today's world, those holding high-paying positions are often deemed as being more successful. Society almost seems to look down on people who choose a job based on passion instead of money.

People who choose jobs only for money can be miserable. There is a fine balance between being self-supporting and still doing work that is rewarding.

Other people feel they need to uphold an image. They search for the approval of those around them in order to feel successful, instead of focusing on what brings them joy in life.

Youth can sometimes feel pressured by their parents when picking an occupation. Sometimes students are pressured to choose the career their parents have already mapped out for them. It is common for students to feel as though they will disappoint their families if they don't follow what is expected of them.

In many instances such as these, students are unable to pursue their true passion in life for fear of going off the beaten path.