For most people, the activity they pursue for personal fulfillment is a labor of love. But skills attained through personal development, skills in the arts, in sports, or science and mathematics can also help your career. We have all heard stories of someone who loved to tinker with some hobby and developed an invention that led to a lucrative business. Another example is the person who loves a sport and whose expertise leads to a coaching position as a second job. Yet another is the person who becomes expert in certain antiques and stumbles upon a valuable find at a garage sale. This article will help you think about ways of combining your hobby or interest with opportunities for income and even a new career.
First, you need to know what you are especially good at. That means not only something you enjoy doing, but something other people remark on and praise you for. If your friends and family think your doodles are cute and hilarious, you may dismiss it. But try sending some to the New Yorker magazine. Perhaps they will strike a chord with a much wider audience. But beware of transforming the hobby you love into a tedious task just to earn a little extra money. If the New Yorker rejects your doodle-cartoons, followed by 12 other magazines, don’t become a slave to the unlikely possibility of commercial success. The doodles you do under this mindset are not likely to be inspired. Continue your doodling for the sake of personal enjoyment, and it will retain its value in your life.
On the other hand, the people who did achieve wealth through their hobby usually did not expect to do so. At least put your work and knowledge out there and get a response. You won’t know until you try. Achieving financial success through a hobby you love is even better than winning the lottery.
For many, teaching others the skills they have learned through a hobby or activity is a way to attain modest financial rewards and even greater personal satisfaction. Having a student who exceeds your own abilities is especially rewarding. You have helped advance the activity you love. It will continue to flourish on into the next generation.
Through a hobby in math or science you may achieve new success in your job. Your expertise has made you a more valuable employee. You can contribute new ideas and new solutions to problems.
Every skill you attain enriches your life. Fulfillment is about much more than money. Personal development can make your life larger in scope and deeper in meaning.
Success in a craft or game or competition is an end in itself. Its worth does not depend on financial remuneration. Many people want to have some hobby in their life that is free of money concerns. Things that are impractical have a special value. Still, there is happiness in turning your hobby into a financial success. It validates the worth of all that work you have done for years.
Think about the advice given here and consider whether the hobby you love can be extended into something others value and give remuneration for. But above all, keep the value of your hobby as a labor of love.