This post seems to be missing the point. There is a general misunderstanding that being happy and excited about what you are doing has to do with the activity itself. It has a lot more to do with meeting internal needs.
I've had a pretty wide variety jobs in my life: meditation teacher, chef, poker player, software engineer. I experienced passion and happiness in all of them.
Initially, this seemed to be by chance, but eventually I spent some time trying to identify what made me happy. I discovered my driving needs: the things that inspire me and bring me the most happiness.
Driving needs are unique: everyone needs different things to be satisfied and fulfilled. For some it is acknowledgement and respect, for others it is the thrill of challenge and overcoming obstacles, and for still others it is security and stability.
It is extremely valuable to understand what your individual needs are. If you are clear about them, you can find ways to fulfill those needs in many different professions. You are free to find the optimal "work" to fulfill those needs.
Someone who is fulfilled by challenges is not likely to be fulfilled working a 9-5 job, just like someone who needs security is not going to be fulfilled working at a startup. It isn't the 9-5 job or the startup that is making the person happy, it is the fact that their needs are getting met.
A clear understanding of your driving needs gives you the opportunity to meet them in whatever situation you find yourself in. Additionally, it gives you the flexibility to change your profession if circumstances dictate without sacrificing your happiness.
I've had a pretty wide variety jobs in my life: meditation teacher, chef, poker player, software engineer. I experienced passion and happiness in all of them.
Initially, this seemed to be by chance, but eventually I spent some time trying to identify what made me happy. I discovered my driving needs: the things that inspire me and bring me the most happiness.
Driving needs are unique: everyone needs different things to be satisfied and fulfilled. For some it is acknowledgement and respect, for others it is the thrill of challenge and overcoming obstacles, and for still others it is security and stability.
It is extremely valuable to understand what your individual needs are. If you are clear about them, you can find ways to fulfill those needs in many different professions. You are free to find the optimal "work" to fulfill those needs.
Someone who is fulfilled by challenges is not likely to be fulfilled working a 9-5 job, just like someone who needs security is not going to be fulfilled working at a startup. It isn't the 9-5 job or the startup that is making the person happy, it is the fact that their needs are getting met.
A clear understanding of your driving needs gives you the opportunity to meet them in whatever situation you find yourself in. Additionally, it gives you the flexibility to change your profession if circumstances dictate without sacrificing your happiness.