If you love what you do, then it is no longer work. The money you earn is secondary when you love your work. Money can never buy happiness, or peace of mind.

Those who continue to work at a job they hate for the money alone are more likely to be stressed, and very unhappy. They live for their vacations and weekends. Unfortunately, they are sadly missing out on the happiness of everyday life. It is better to receive less money and be happy with what you are doing, than to receive lots of money and hate what you are doing.

"Profit is a by-product of work; happiness is its chief product." Henry Ford

When you love your work, you look forward to each day. Your attitude changes from one where you are counting the days to the weekend, to one where you enjoy your weekend, but look forward to your return of work.

Unfortunately, not many people have found this quality. Often, people stay in jobs that they despise rather than taking a risk by changing their work to an area that they love. Sometimes, we fall into the trap of thinking we are secure in our positions, and believe it is better to remain where we are rather than change jobs.

If you do not love what you do, I would encourage you to find an occupation that you would enjoy, and set your goals to help get you there. Although, I have heard numerous people wish for a different position, they take no concrete action to move them towards fulfilling their wishes. By setting goals, you can start to advance in the direction you want. It may take time, but rather than wishing, you are actually taking positive steps toward achieving your desire.

"The great thing in this world is not so much where we are, but in what direction we are moving." Oliver Wendell Holmes

Many times I hear people say, "Loving what you do sounds great, but I'm not sure what I love to do." Well, let me suggest that you make a list of the following:

1. What things have you done in your life that you really enjoyed doing. Don't judge your thoughts, just write - it could be anything from playing a sport, to cooking a dinner.
2. What do you have a passion for? What has made you want to jump out of bed?

From these two lists, expand on the ideas. What type of career do you see by using one of your ideas. Your results may reveal several possibilities. You then have to decide which one you want to pursue.

After you have decided which career to pursue, set your goals and take the necessary action to attain them. This may mean taking courses to acquire your credentials, improving your current skills, or conducting research. Use the three principles in setting your goals:

WHAT = Goal
HOW = Action Plan
WHEN = Time Frames

Goals are like a map. They help us determine where we want to end up, and give us personal direction on which to focus our energy! To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The world makes way for the man who knows where he is going."