I went to college to find a stable career path. I went to find a job that would make me a steady source of income that I could bear living with for the next 40 years or so. I went down a path pursuing something that I’m good at. Is it my passion? No. But that might actually turn out to be a good thing.

My passion involves the arts and their media. I love performing. I love directing shows. I love editing videos. Being involved in the arts and media is what I wish I was doing with my life, but I’m also glad I decided not to make a career out of it.

You know people always say “Do what you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life”. I see the point trying to be made, but I disagree. Why would you want to take what you love with all your heart and turn it into a job where you’re forced to make it perfect for the benefit of others instead of yourself?

Don’t get me wrong, I would love to be an actor or an editor. However, I feel like the love and passion I put toward my craft would be ruined as soon as my hobby becomes work with deadlines and people yelling about perfection. I edit and perform because it’s a nice outlet from all the stresses of the real world. I can be myself and give it my all, but my all won’t be “not enough” for anyone.

I chose a career path with a skill I’m good at: writing. It’s not necessarily my dream job, but being good at something helped create a fiery passion inside me. Not the same passion I get while doing my hobbies, but a new passion to strive for greatness because it isn’t a hobby. It’s a challenge.

This may seem confusing, but think about it like this: Imagine you’re asked to babysit a child. It’s like a job, so you dread going. You think “ugh, I’m being forced to work. I can’t do whatever I want because the child’s parent might get angry with me.” However, if you were with your younger sibling at home and your parents leave to go shopping without a word, it’s not considered work. It’s just an every day occurrence that is normal to you. Being left alone to take care of the child in your own way is more fulfilling then being told what to do because your best is enough.

You may love kids, but if you’re told how you need to watch them, it automatically registers in your brain as something dreadful.

I’m not saying avoid reaching for the stars. If you want to be a musical theatre major, go for it! Want to work in business? Absolutely give it a try! I’m only saying that you don’t have to major in your interests for your dreams to come true. Try new things, and who knows what will happen. You may discover a new passion in life.