MM: Doing great work. Doing what you love.

The realities of life so often dictate our professional path. Sure, we'd all choose to do something we love for our job and do great work. Whatever stage of life you are in, there are circumstances that seem to block you from making that choice. It might be the major you chose in college, where you chose to live, you're married and your spouse's job prevents you from doing something you love, financial obligations of your life - the potential hurdles are endless.

SOAPBOX SIDEBAR: Look, let's get this out of the way ... if, to you, "doing what you love" means doing something you simply find enjoyable (i.e. eating ice cream, playing on your phone or similar) or something you wish you could do but aren't any good at (i.e. being a professional basketball player when you're 5'8" or being a pop star when you can't carry a tune) - then you're daydreaming about being independently wealthy or are just lazy.

Back to the real world ... the way I see it you have two options depending on where you are in life. If you're still young enough to make choices about your life that will contribute to doing what you love in your career, then do it.

Of course, in my opinion, your professional path should always be subordinate to the primary relationships in your life. So keep that in mind. What is really most important to you? Make choices accordingly. I've told everyone who has ever worked for me that your job is just your job. Your life and happiness are infinitely more important.

At the same time, if the work aspect of your life is great that is a huge plus for the other aspects of your life. It's a balancing act. But, if you're still young and have choices that can advance your career into an area that you are passionate about without damaging important relationships in your life, jump on it.

Most people reading this blog are at a point in their life where spouse and kids factor into every decision. The financial responsibilities are real and often times the biggest stress in today's culture. Your options are limited, but not gone. Your paths can either be to make choices to reduce your financial responsibilities so you can pursue your passion in your work. Or, if you can make it work, build your passion into a feasible financial replacement.

The former has one major roadblock: getting real and true buy-in from your spouse. IF you have that, you can do it. It's not easy, nor will it be especially enjoyable at times. If you've become accustomed to a six figure income, but your passion is to coach and impact high school kids, it's going to be a sacrifice and radical change to your lifestyle. Again, you have to decide what's really important - money or happiness?

The latter option is more complex and takes more time and talent, but can provide the fulfillment of pursuing your passion AND the lifestyle you have or want. Of course, what I'm talking about is basically starting your own business. I guess it doesn't necessarily have to mean that, but typically that's what it comes down to. Are you willing to develop a sound business plan, work hard to make it a reality and then talented and committed enough to execute it successfully? I believe there are countless people who could do it, but don't either out of fear or lack of support.

But, that's a topic for a whole other blog post. Bottom line is this: whenever possible follow your heart, do what you love and you'll probably find the results astonishing. Believe in yourself and in the future and impact you can create.