I was talking to a friend of mine about work. We were discussing the Pro’s and Con’s about our jobs. Neither one of us has a desk job, or an office, nor do we travel. We both have the freedom to take a break when we feel the urge, and can take lunch at any time of the work day. But, the work hours we have are long, and the physical and mental demands of our jobs can really take a toll on us. I asked him if he was doing the job he had dreamed about as a kid in school, or even in college. A definitive no was the reply, and after a short story of events that led to his current job, I was amused that he ended up in his current job.
     We are both well passed college, but not close to retirement. I proposed that it is not too late for him to get in the field he has always wanted to be in. What are the reasons for not working in the field we dreamed or hope for? Money, family, or maybe we found out it wouldn’t work with our personality as we matured? How many people get a decent job, with a decent company, and just accept it because it is ok? By accepting a career because it is ok, does that mean we will be content later down the road? I have always liked challenging myself, to exceed in what I do, and to have to think different ways to fix problems that do not remain consistent. Otherwise, I probably would get bored of my job.
     I also have a hang-up, or mental thought that resides in the back of my head, which makes me feel like I should be doing something different for a profession. The only problem is, I have not figured it out yet. Ironically, I told this to my friend and he said he has talked to many people that feel almost the same way. Our conversation changed direction, and I was asked why I have not tried to do something different. Besides my financial responsibilities and family, I actually enjoy what I do. Truthfully, however, I have started several times to follow a different career, but never followed through. It is easy to look at other people’s situations and give advise and encouragement, but it is also hard to look at yourself in the mirror, tell yourself you can do whatever you want to do, and feel 100% convinced.
     Is it unreasonable or foolish to try to follow your dreams, especially with half of your productive years behind you? Or, is the time never better, especially since you are more experienced, and more the wise? If you were to ask your friends and family if they would restart their career, what would they tell you? I guess maybe I just heard too many people say they wish they were doing something else. Maybe they wanted more money, or better working conditions. Looking down the road, when I become too old to work in my profession, I see an empty space. I also see regret. If I do decide to try to go into another profession and fail, at least I can feel good knowing that it just wasn’t for me. It’s never to late to try.