A question that I ask a lot of people is "Why do you do what you do?" Most of the time people get stuck and take some time before answering the question. I jump back in the conversation and ask...
"Is it your passion? Is it because of the money? Or do you actually hate it and are just waiting for something better to come along?"
Their final response is...
"To be honest I just like the money."
There's no problem doing things for money. Money is a necessity and I always encourage people to get as much as they can as a security blanket. Even I have done things just for money to make sure my future is secure and I'm comfortable. But at a certain point in your life doing things just for money can take a toll or MAYBE NOT.
Most of the people I ask that question come to realize that they are passionate about something. But the ones who are already pursuing their passion already know their 'WHY'. The young basketball coach has a passion in coaching kids and loves the confidence the sport gives the kids.
A radio dj in small town Ohio loves playing old school R&B on his local station. Why is this? Because he knows a lot of people in that town love the way that era of music makes them feel. I love to write and I love the fact that my stories can help people escape for a moment in time. My 'WHY' is simple. I create stories out of thin air because I know there are a group of people who love to read them and I like the way it makes them feel.
My why isn't necessarily about money. In my instance money is just a bonus for the things that I put my time and effort into. Again, I am not saying that making money shouldn't be your why. I'm saying that if you're in a situation where your confused about what your doing maybe you should ask yourself why you're doing it.
If you're reading this and don't have a 'WHY' that's fine. Life is about learning what you love and really want to do at any age. You're in no rush so slow down, grab a notepad and write down some ideas and things that your'e passionate about. And when you figure it out let the world know your 'WHY'.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?
Alex Owumi is a professional basketball player and bestselling author of Qaddafi's Point Guard, The Fire Raven series and The Man In Forest Hills. You can view his website here.
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