Why is it that our society clearly celebrates the chance takers, yet we rarely encourage one another to take chances–especially those people closest to us?
Almost all your favorite artists quit the traditional to pursue their dreams. Steve Jobs and Bill Gates dropped out of college to pursue their passions. Regardless if you wanna be in art, or film, or accounting, or a pro athlete, the story is the same.
Go tell your husband that you’re quitting your well paying job to pursue a career in video and film. Or go tell your parents you’re dropping out of college to pursue photography full time and see what they say.
I’m not saying quit your day job on the spot. But I do find it strange that our culture by-and-large celebrates those people who have taken non-traditional paths to success, but yet it rarely encourages people to take those same paths when success is only a distant dream.
What is wrong with us?
Take that chance. And encourage others in your life to do the same.
Hi Chase, of course another great article.
Since we are born we are “wired” to do what “society” dictates us to do, including success, so therefore we always strive to achieve that success that has been disctated to us by others. Be an engineer, a doctor, have a big house, the dog, the big screen tv, the expensive car, etc, etc…
It is now, at 35 years old, and after several different studies, that I can pursue my passion for photography full time; thanks of course in grand part to my very supportive wife and relatives.
I have learned that it really doesn’t matter how much money you make if you are miserable at your work place so that’s what I decided to take my chance this time.
Hopefully it all will be worth it.
Wow! many people is in the same boat like me!!
Your blog give me a lot of energy to realize my dream.
very well said…
5 years ago both my husband and I quit our jobs, sold our house and started a photobook busines. We are still not making anywhere near as much money as we were previously, we drive an old car, still renting and don’t get any more than 3 days holiday at once, but we have very rewarding jobs and kick arse camera gear and computers. It just depends on what’s important to you.
I couldn’t agree more with you Chase. For a while now I have been taking the traditional route and it pains to know that out of the potential we all have we rarely maximize and utilize our capabilities. I’m really inspired by this post and i hope other people will be inspired too. Thanks.
Carlo