Would you still do your job if you won the lottery?

I’m really, really blessed to love my job! I know this, because as a facilitator and trainer I regularly see people who really, really don’t.

Years ago I was working as a coach and got offered a project aimed at helping retirees to decide what to do with their retirement “packages”. What saddened me the most is the extent to which people got tied into the idea that their entire identity was defined by their jobs. “If I’m no longer Joe, the investment banker, then who am I?” Almost second to that were the people who felt that they “once” had a dream to do something that felt meaningful to them. But, predictably they never took action and then at the age of sixty had regrets. Painful regrets. Here were a bunch of bankers who filed their passions to be a veterinarian, carpenter, small business owner, or game ranger and spent their working lives doing what they detested.

Please wake up today and take a look. We spend so many hours a day at work. Are you where you want to be? Are you really doing what you should? Does your occupation bring joy to you – and do you bring joy to others while doing it?

If you win the lottery, would you still want to do your job? I would. And that is how I know I am on the right path.

So, what to do?

Make your hobby a job

Someone once said: “Do what you love and the money will follow.” If you happen to know who that someone was or is – please let me know! When work feels like your purpose, that is when everything falls into place.

Do it for free until you can charge

I ran workshops in the community and gave my time to facilitate at no charge. It was through one of these projects that a door opened into the corporate world. Someone noticed and gave me an opportunity. When you love what you do, your passion will be inspiring!

Be willing to be wrong

Your first career choice is just that – the first. So, if it makes you miserable, do something else. I will be delighted if every person I encounter is doing what he or she loves. Imagine a grocery check out person who loves what she does? I would like to meet her and share a joke and a smile at the end of a hard day!

It’s never too late

My ex father in law did what his parents wanted him to do. Spent almost 30 years in a career he didn’t love – but you know the drill, – big, safe company, benefits, and security. Yes, he was a brilliant engineer employed by a well-known and respected company. Then, he finally retired and instead of surrendering to golf and his wife’s dreams he went back to school. He now does what he loves. Finally in his eighties he is working with people as a social worker and loving it. So different to engineering! – It’s never too late!

Yes, you can!

Tackle the thoughts that lead you to insecurity head on. Are those thoughts true? Really? Really, really? Take a long hard look and be sure that your belief that you cant is not based in what your aunt Mavis or your first grade teacher said. If all else fails – remember that there is nothing that you and God together cant do. Notice how your “I can’t” thoughts undermine your energy level.

Make God your business partner

Please know that I am not here to support religion. None of it! But, in your quiet time, ask your version of God for help. Prayer is amazingly powerful. And, God is the greatest business partner you can find!

Make time for nothing

When we are excruciatingly busy DOING, we seldom make time for being. Stop the business and be with what is true right now. You don’t need to go to the Himalayas or even learn a meditation technique. Just STOP for a few minutes every day. Reflect on what is working and what needs work. Don’t fixate or analyse – learn the art of reflection.

As always I love to be witness to you process and experience- so, feel free to share and ask!