Is Following Your Passion Always Good Career Advice?

“Follow your passion.”  How often have we heard that advice directed to a young person who is about to graduate from high school?  The premise is that if your find something you are excited about, then studying becomes easier.  While on the surface that might seem logical, it is not always practical.  The fields of veterinary medicine or marine biology are good examples.  Students who have pets and enjoy being around animals might see a career working with them in their future.  The reality is getting into veterinary school is difficult and there is not a huge demand for marine biologists. 

During my years as a high school counselor I sent some of my classroom time teaching a class called Careers.  The class was required for juniors during their first semester.  The curriculum took students through the process of exploring career fields, identifying potential college majors, and exploring possible college options.  In addition we looked at what life in college was going to be like and even how to plan for the future financially. 

In looking at career options I always told my students, “If you find any career that reaches the needs of older adults you will almost always have a job.”  While that might include the medical field, it also included jobs in the leisure and hospitality industries.  Obviously, there are a growing number of baby boomers who are retiring.  Many of them have discretionary income to spend on travel and leisure activities.   As we age our health also requires more attention.  That not only means a need for more doctors and nurses, but for physical therapist and nutritionist. 

I recently read an article on the advice that adults are giving today’s high school students.  Not surprisingly, many folks are encouraging teens to pursue careers in science and technology, but health care also made the list.  While young adults who are just starting their careers were the ones who most often said, “Pursue your passion,” it was those who had the experience who gave the best advice. 

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When it comes to the teens in your life, make sure they hear your story but also make sure you are guiding them into a career where the will not only be successful, happy, but marketable.