Passion Vs. Profit

In the past 20 years, I have encountered many debates and panel discussions where this has been discussed with much gusto. Almost always the passionate ones as defenders of passion have been far more passionate about the subject and almost felt they occupy a higher ground.

This debate is even more relevant in today’s digital world.

Common sentiments such as - Should I write a blog that could possibly be read and followed by many so I can make money by showcasing things of commercial interest? Or should I pursue my poetry blog as I am passionate about poems even though not too many read them?

Like the above – photographers, artists, musicians and even hobby artists have similar debates. My two cents – that are mainly born out of pursuance of both over many years.

You can be passionate about profit – While, like some of you, I am mostly driven by passion, one of my closest friends is incredibly passionate about making profits by out-thinking others. That’s his game and he revels in it.

Passions may be many, profit is one – Most of the ‘passionate’ people I have met have more than one passion. And you’d agree that it is not possible to make all of it profit-worthy. So, choose wisely.

Trying to make money pursuing your passion is not always the best bet – I got back to music - my relatively uncultivated yet deep passion - by making it commercially viable. Work-shopped with hundreds of corporate teams, making them write, compose and sing. I also tried to support some struggling musicians. However, it didn’t really work. Then I took to song writing and releasing my own material. That was the answer. It’s been much more gratifying.

When you passionately pursue something – Money needs to become incidental. It is only natural that people around you will keep you reminding of the money you could have made doing other things. And it will play on your mind. You have to battle these demons from time to time. If you are a thinking person, you should be able to ward them off easily enough. And money will happen – maybe never enough. But when is it enough anyway?

If you haven’t found your passion, please pursue profit – Almost 7-8 years into my career I figured out what I really wanted to do professionally. While I may be a laggard compared to the new young, I know some who haven’t yet found/given up on it. The best thing to do while figuring out what you’re really cut out to do is to make as much money as possible. It really helps you tide over the first phase of pursuing your passion or starting up if you are entrepreneur material.

Go Back