This past weekend, I got to spend some time with someone that I haven't seen in many years. This person is incredibly bright, articulate, and a joy to be around. The only thing missing is their drive and motivation. How well does this person do the things needed to be done and why do them? How fulfilled are they?
As I time went on with them on a beautiful Saturday, I saw that this person was going through the motions. My friend went day to day, job to job, doing what was needed to be done so long that rent and bills were paid and the ocassional good time was had. While that's all well and good for many people, this could never be the way I live my life.
A question that I've heard time and time again in real life and in movies is, "If money was no object, what would you do with your life?" Its a question often posed to people trying to pick a major in college/university or speciality in a vocational school. The underlying idea is that you figure out what it is you love doing and then do it. I think about this question frequently.
I don't think about it in a "What do I love to do?" kind of way, but in a "Wow, I'm doing what I love!" kind of way. I've been fortunate enough to have had teachers and mentors over the years that have shown me that their fulfillment came from doing what they love and sharing it. And while times do get tough, they've soldiered on.
If you don't know me personally, I teach Filipino Martial Arts, I'm also the founder and editor-in-chief of a popculture website, and I currently have a day job in business development/management consulting. Everything I do, has to do with what I love - which when I break it down is about sharing love, talent, and knowledge. For me, teaching FMA is about sharing my love of my heritage while leading myself and others to developing physically, mentally, and spiritually. The website I started with my friends is about our love of "geeky/nerdy" things and encouraging others to express and share their love despite societal "norms." My 9-5'er is about helping business owners lead their staff and run their businesses effectively so they can get back to doing the craft that they love doing.
So that whole "do what you love and the money will follow" thing? I'm doing what I love. I have various professional goals in the things that I do and I love pursuing them. And the money? That'll happen when its meant to happen.
And to my teachers, thank you for sharing the things you love with me and inspiring me to do the same.
And yes, after writing this, I was reminded of "OFFICE SPACE"
And yes, after writing this, I was reminded of "OFFICE SPACE"
