Beyond the joy of it, there is embedded optionality in doing what you love. If things really work out commercially, you gain (if such gains interest you that is). If not, you are doing what deeply interests you anyway! 

Shift in mindset 

So, the optionality in doing what you love has a positive asymmetry built in. You lose nothing by engaging in it and stand to gain hugely if things work out. The only caveat is making sure that you don’t go bust —that you don’t end-up on the streets! There is, then, a very clear path for those willing to walk it. The reason many don’t, is because this path requires a radical change in mindset and perhaps lifestyle. A change from status-seeking living, centred around achievement and consumerism to the joy of doing something for its own sake. 

I have discussed the trap of expensive urban living elsewhere. What I want to emphasise here is the inherent optionality in doing what you love, where the potential for (significant) commercial gain is naturally present. However, we must remember to not rely on it. Rather, to simply be ready to capitalise on it, if commercial gain comes and if you desire it.  

You create the optionality in doing what you love 

It is then your mindset that creates the optionality. If your mind is set on large commercial gain, you will not experience any optionality here. In fact, all this will seem quite nonsensical! For, wanting to make-it-big is the realm of luck-based wild success that many are suckered by, but that few find.  

The optionality in doing what you love is only created by giving primacy to what deeply interests you. The option comes from really wanting to do what you love.  

Remember too that doing what you love does not mean you have to end up on the streets. There are ways to avoid that and still find fulfilling work. The main point here is to recognise the optionality in doing what you love — optionality that exists beyond simply making ends meet. 

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Harsha is a 1:1 coach and independent thinker based in London. He empowers people to find more clarity, confidence and focus in their lives — to cut through the noise, in a world so full of it. Harsha’s new book, Machine Ego: Tragedy of the Modern Mind, is now available in paperback and Kindle through Amazon.