Sisterly Advice on LIFE: Live What You Love (only If You Don't Suck at It)

I've been pretty lucky in my career (so far), and often get asked what did I do different than others to get where I'm at. Which is silly because I'm never satisfied, and surely not satisfied with where my career is at today. Always more to do, more to grow and more to conquer.

The main thing I tell people is that you have to do something you're passionate about. BUT, I will caveat that by saying, do something you're passionate about and are good at.

Passion alone will not help you to succeed. Passion + Talent, well that's a dangerous and awesome combination.

If you're one of the lucky few who have realized you're gifted at something you love and can make money at, WOW. Congrats.

Just don't let it go to waste. Work harder, faster and smarter than anyone else to achieve your goals.

Now, here's the tough love part....

You must understand the difference between wanting something and being good at something. Just because you really really really want something, doesn't mean you have the abilities to get it. I know! Harsh. I hate saying it, but it's tough love.

No matter how much I WANT to be a fashion model, I've accepted they're not making many 5'3 girls with a booty the next Gisele.

So. There are three types of dream jobs:

1. Completely Unattainable by Nature. These are the jobs you needed to be born with the abilities to succeed in. If you weren't dealt these cards it okay, move on.
   Example: Singers, Dancers, Athletes, Models (things that require a certain physical attribute to participate)
   
2. Difficult, but Totally Attainable. These are the jobs that aren't easy to succeed in, but completely possible if you're willing to work harder than everyone else (AND are good at it)
   Example: Actor, Photographer, Musician, Author, Business Owner, Inventors, Harvard Grads, CEOs (things that tons of people want, but only some can have)
   
3. Realistic. These are the jobs most people have and do really well by. They're more in demand and thus more realistic to find work in.

For all the girls I coach, I have a strict policy of not supporting completely unattainable dreams because it's a waste of their time and potential.

But for the remaining categories, it's all about stamina, hard work and timing. Be ready at any moment for that big opportunity or tap on the shoulder. Don't ever give anyone a reason to pass you up, because you're not ready. The odds of them coming back are slim.

What category does your dream job fall into?

Cheers!
Big Sis'