What Would You Rather Be Doing?

Too many people show up at work every day, put in their time, and run out the door at 5:01pm. They then race home to do the things that they REALLY want to be doing, such as changing the oil in their motorcycle, cooking a delicious dinner, playing their guitar, or playing with their dog. These folks go to work because they HAVE to... not because the WANT to. Does this describe you?

Sadly, these poor souls will probably never be truly successful in their jobs, mainly because they are not truly and completely interested in what they do all day. Sure, it is something that they know HOW to do, and maybe they do a decent job, but at the end of the day, it's just that... a JOB that (hopefully) pays the bills.

Many successful people have said this many times: find something that you love to do, learn to do it well, and you will be truly successful.

But how?

Although this may require some deep soul searching, and it will definitely be different for everyone, here are a few tips to help you get started...

1. Think about your true interests

During your spare time, what do you really enjoy doing? Do you find yourself spending time at work thinking or reading about certain non-work-related topics? Regardless of how serious or silly it is, write it down.

2. Zoom out and analyze the field of interest

Does this field have a future, and what options are available to work in the field? If you enjoy fixing cars, for instance, you don't need to become an auto technician; there are many ways that you can make a living in the field of auto repair... from selling tools or auto parts to teaching others about car repair.

3. Apply skills that you already have

Based on the work that you have done during the past several years, paid or otherwise, what skills do you have? List as many skills as you can, and remember to think about the 'hard' (technical) and 'soft' (people) skills. Based on what you have identified, can any of these skills be used in your field of interest?

4. Get educated in the field

Chances are that you already know more than the average person about your field of interest, but in order to turn it into a career someday, you will need to take your knowledge to the next level. Spend time researching your field by reading books, magazines, and blog posts, watching videos, and devouring anything else you can find about the topic. If there are formal classes available and you can afford the time and money, take them. If there are any certifications in the field, earn them.

5. Get involved in the community... online and offline

While doing your research in the field, you may have encountered some online and local communities of people who are interested in the same topic. Join those communities, participate in the discussions, attend the meetings, and get to know people in the community. This will not only put you in touch with some of the latest trends and issues in the field, but it will also help to build your network of peers, employers, and customers.

6. Develop thought leadership and start sharing

After researching your field of interest and getting heavily involved in the community, you have probably amassed quite a lot of knowledge, and perhaps you have formed your own ideas about things you can share or ways to improve the field and move it forward. Find a channel for your ideas and start publishing them (writing, photos, videos, etc.) so that others can learn from you.

7. Look for opportunities to work in the field

After you have developed some expertise in your field of interest and started publishing some of your own ideas, other people in the field will start finding you, recognizing you, and possibly seeking you out. If someone offers you a job (even if you have to start in the mail room), your passion and excitement will probably help you to rise through the ranks quickly. Take the opportunity to learn and grow your expertise.

Good luck!