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Thoughts on becoming self-employed and making a living off my passions? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) by monovergent@lemmy.ml to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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My performance is passable and my motivation is mediocre at work. I swear it was my dream job at some point, but I can't help but feel like it's become a slog. It makes my family proud and pays the bills comfortably though.

It's only recently settled in me that laziness isn't the word for it. I've found that I'll work my ass off for something if I'm genuinely and deeply passionate about it. Like the hobbies that cut into my time for sleep.

This has lead me to frequently daydream about "following my passions" and becoming self-employed instead of sticking with the conventional, safe career I previously envisioned. Living a life that brings me more joy. I've fantasized about making and selling gadgets. Perhaps becoming a content creator to promote those gadgets. All the things that bring me joy, but I have little time to do alongside my current job.

But I only have so much saved up and I'm lacking connections with those who have more resources. And in this economy, I don't know when I'll have another chance at my current job if I end up realizing that it was better. Will monetizing my hobbies inevitably ruin them? The grass looks greener on the other side, but will I go back to thinking the same once I'm on the other side? Or have you or someone you know pursued a genuine passion, made it a career, and never looked back?

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[–] bobo1900@startrek.website 7 points 2 days ago

Your concerns are valid and there's a risk such a move would be either economically unsuccessful or emotionally draining. Is there a way you can start experimenting with some monetization without leaving your job? This way you can test how feasible it is, and yoy have more informarion on how it could work for you.