I remember a time in my life when I had nothing going on. I had just left the place I was staying and moved in with my mother and siblings. It was a strange and difficult period for me. I had no job, no skills to offer, and nothing to contribute. I felt useless.
Then came a day I’ll never forget. My mother had called someone to fix the wallpaper in the house. As the man worked, I watched him closely, fascinated by his skill and precision. There was something about the way he worked that really struck me. I found it amazing.
I walked up to my elder sister and said, “I love what this man is doing. I’d like to learn it.” Fortunately, she knew the man, so it wasn’t difficult to approach him. When she asked on my behalf, he responded kindly and asked when I would like to start. I was eager and serious. I told him I could start right away. He laughed, and just like that, it was settled.
The next morning, he called and told me to meet him at a work site. I didn’t hesitate. I got ready and went. That first day, we didn’t do much, but I wasn’t thinking about money. I just wanted to learn. I later discovered he also did painting, and I followed him in that as well. I picked things up quickly because I was focused and determined.
At each site we visited, I met new people not just clients but fellow workers, many of whom had years of experience. I was the youngest, but I stayed curious and committed. I asked questions, shared what I knew, and learned even more from those around me. Despite the challenges, I pushed forward because I knew what I was after.
When you have passion and put real energy into what you do, the work doesn't feel like a chore. You become naturally driven, curious, and consistent. People who truly enjoy what they do tend to stick with it, even through tough times.
But passion alone doesn't pay the bills at least not right away. Many passion-driven careers like writing, music, art, or social work often start off with low or unstable income. That’s why financial stability matters. It reduces stress, allows you to plan long-term, take risks, or even step back when needed. With money, you can invest in your dreams.
Eventually, I realized it wasn’t just about learning anymore. I needed to earn too. I had spent years working under someone without pay, gaining experience, but I needed to fend for myself. One day, while my boss was away, I went out looking for work. I visited sites and offices, hoping someone had a job I could do.
Finally, I landed a small job. I fixed it perfectly, and even though the pay was little, the client was happy and so was I. That experience showed me I could work on my own and earn something, even during my free time. I had reached a point where I couldn’t work for free anymore. No matter how passionate or skilled you are, without money, your ideas and dreams can die.
You need money to make things happen passion alone isn’t enough. Life requires balance. Bills, food, electricity, water. They all cost money. That’s just the reality of life.
In the end, I’ve come to understand that passion and financial planning must coexist. Passion fuels your purpose, but without a plan, it leads to frustration. And money without meaning leads to emptiness.
This is my answer to the question asked.
When choosing a career, is it more important to follow passion or to prioritize financial stability? Can the two coexist, or must one always be sacrificed fr the other?
What is your take on balancing money and passion in building a fulfilling and sustainable career.
Thanks for your time on my blog.
All images used are mine
