Career vs. Job: Follow Your Passion

by Akash Sharma Akash Sharma

We often confuse the two terms - job and career and even interchange them while we talk. Although they sound similar, they aren't.

Job is what you have to do to earn a living. It may not necessarily mean your passion or something you would like to do for the rest of your life. A career is a lifelong journey in which an individual acquires skills and uses these skills along with knowledge and experience in a specific field to earn money. A person spends more years in a particular field to fulfill various roles to progress in a career. People passionate about their work usually overcome them by solving problems positively, ultimately leading to success.

To help kids realize and understand their passion, Maa Foundation, a well-established NGO in India focuses on creativity, growth and imagination for a holistic learning experience. Run by the Bilakhia Group, this NGO provides the much needed support and guidance to kids across the country.

If you haven't figured out what you are looking for, these guidelines may help you to understand:

1. Try to find value in your job

Even if you do some tedious job, focus on aspects of the job that you like. It can be chatting with your colleagues at lunch or work. Changing your perspective towards your job can help you win back a sense of purpose and control.

2. Take initiative at work and pursue your interest.

Any employer acknowledges employees who are ready to volunteer for a new project. Try undertaking new tasks and be open to learning new skills at work to avoid boredom. Volunteering can be outside of work too. It will help to enhance self-confidence and even provide you with valuable work experience.

3. Plan your career on short term goals

Spend some time volunteering, work part-time, and build a network in your field of interest. It will not only help make an easier transition, but you also buy time to ensure that you are on the right path, enabling you to make the right decision before you enter a full-time role.

4. Be patient in the journey.

Keep in mind that your search may take some time, and you may need to explore several different paths before you find the right career path. Time and introspection will help you determine your truly pleasurable activities.

Making money is important in the world we live in, but that does not mean that it should be our top priority when choosing a career. In the end, you will do better and make faster progress professionally, which is important, so instead of running behind money, it is advisable to follow your passion.