Battle of the ages: Passion v/s job

Meghna Biwalkar, TimesJobs.com Bureau


Whether to do something you are really passionate about or a routine job is a conflict everyone faces atleast once in their life. So, what is the right decision?

We are all familiar with the old school and new school theories. And, often find ourselves caught in the middle. The classic one is: Following your passion or doing a regular job.

Recently, Mike Rowe of the television show ‘Dirty Jobs” said, “Follow your passion…is ‘horrible, horrible advice’ for young people who are about to start their careers.”

Whether it is college students or professionals, this isn’t new advice for people who are keen to tread on this path. Often parents, teachers and well-wishers caution them against the insecurities of following their passion, as opposed to the security of a stable job.

“Follow your passion is a very fairy-tale like advice. It’s ok for people who are not governed by financial responsibilities. One needs to know that most people work to fulfill the basic needs and not for emotional satisfaction,” says Preeti Parekh who works in a multi-national bank in Mumbai for 15 years.

Parekh asks, “Aren’t hobby and career two different things? Won’t it kill your passion when it becomes your job?”

Points out Bhavika Jhaveri, who first took up a job for a sports website as she was passionate about cricket. “I love cricket. But, when I had to report on it everyday, it became work. I kind of started missing the plot. But, then on one day I met my favourite cricketers Brian Lara…and I knew why I was here.” Jhaveri is now a professional blogger based out of Goa.

Hard work is the key to success, whether it’s passion or at a regular job. “The point is when you are passionate about something you will find ways to come out of it. But, when you dislike what you are doing you will find yourself getting drawn into the darkness over and over again. Yes, one has to get their hands dirty to make something beautiful. Remember you are on a journey, and you will face ups and downs,” says Jhaveri.

Agrees Yukti Kapoor Mehandiratta, partner, Concept Exhibition, “If you have found what you love, then you must congratulate yourself! How many people really know what they are looking for? And, ignoring this calling because of fears and social conformations is like cheating yourself. If you have passion, simply pursue it.” Mehandiratta just quit her high paying job at Barclays India to pursue her dreams.

While this may be true, Parekh suggests that one should do a job that will give you a sense of achievement. “If you want to be happy and also earn money, look for a job that you are good at. This is a safer bet than following your passion.”

Now, that’s a thought. Mehandiratta argues that if you are passionate money will follow, and you will of course be good at it. “So, why should one conform themselves to a job?”

She suggests, “The earlier you start following your passion the better it is. The more time you spend time thinking about it, you will dilute your thoughts.”

The argument will continue. It is easier said than done…follow your heart. “The best way to go about choosing passion over career is by prioritising things. Be honest with yourself. Lastly, give yourself time and space,” advices Jhaveri.