For years, I was confused about this, as I read books and websites that sent me two different messages:
Pleasure later. The first message was that in order to be successful, in order to build wealth, you have to delay gratification. You can’t have instant gratification and be successful.
I’m sure you were asked this question at least once when you were a youngster. When asked the question, did you have an answer at the ready or did you need a few minutes to think about it ? We all have dreams of becoming something great, like a fireman, a teacher, or a rock star. Well, how did you do? Maybe you never aspired to be what you set out to be or said that you would become. But then again, things change. The older we get, our tastes change, our view of the world changes, even our goals change.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned during my career path is to do something you love to do. I feel that if you enjoy what you make a living at , you end up being happy in more ways than one. Life itself becomes much more interesting and fun.
Pleasure now. The second message was usually from other sources on Happiness, but sometimes from the same source: enjoy life now, while you can, because it’s short and you never know when your last day will come. Live every day like it’s your last. Trouble is, I agree with both messages. And if you read this site often, you’ll see that I send both messages: Live frugally and simply! But also enjoy life!
While no job or business is perfect, the important thing is to enjoy it, even learn from it. If you are unhappy in your current situation, why not take steps now to change it? Somewhere out there is a job or business that is perfect for you. If you are already there, I applaud you.
If not , realize that it may take some time to figure out what you really want to do , and even more time to actually get there. That’s all right! I can tell you from experience that finding and doing what you love are absolutely worth it. All of the research , training , and hands-on experience have made me a stronger, happier person.