The Difference Between What You Should Do To Earn Money And A Hobby

I think the major difference between doing something for a living and doing something as a hobby is your ability to contribute and innovate in that field.  I think that we are all creative innovators, in some way shape or form.  I think the thing that you want to do for money is the thing that you feel so strongly about that not only do you work every day to get better at it, but you think you can contribute something to that body of knowledge and push the needle, in your own capacity.

It’s a concept I’ve been struggling with.  How do I know I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing as my vocation? How do I know I picked the right thing? I realized something important at my dance class today: yes, I want to get better at dance, absolutely.  But do I want to contribute to the field of dance in some way, shape or form? Not really.  I don’t want any expectations, I don’t want any stress, I don’t want to feel responsible.

And I think that’s the main difference.  With startups, I want to get better but I absolutely want to contribute to the industry, read about it, talk about it, and create a bit with other smart people.  Push the envelope.

It’s one of the few things I feel that strongly about.  Where I don’t mind being held responsible to give back.  Leave a mark, in my own right.

And if you’re not passionate enough to make that commitment, maybe it should be kept as your hobby, and not your vocation.

Just some thoughts.