You may be able to tell, but I sway between writing for me, and writing for you, dear reader.
As a kid, I’ve kept a diary on and off. Looking back, it’s been at moments when I’ve been trying to figure life out.
The travel diaries are my favourite, then I get to remember the experience as it was then, with all the details I have forgotten as the years pass.
Writing this leadership blog is valuable for me, and I hope that it has enough value for you: even on those days when I am actually writing for myself.
Today this has led me to contemplate the monetisation of hobbies, and what that is doing to us as a society.
Now, my blog isn’t monetised, but many are. I’m thinking more about this pervasive message out there about creating side hustles, making our passion our work, etc.
For example, I’ve started embroidery and I showed one of my creations to a friend, and they encouraged me by saying “you could sell what you make”.
I’m grateful that they thought many someones would want to buy what I stitch.
It just had me wonder: what is the place for creating things, just because we want to create?
Do we need to monetise everything we are good at?
Are we still allowed to “waste” our talents by doing things for free?
As I figure out my own answers to this, I want to offer this piece of knowledge I’ve collected since doing work that I love.
In my coaching work:
When I think about the money, everything changes. Things become transactional, and the joy and creativity seep away.
When I do it because I love it, it’s transformational.
Sometimes it’s epic.
And yes, I still charge for my work. So this is an interesting paradox I get to hold in this career I have chosen.
What are your hobbies/things you love to do?
Importantly, are you spending the amount of time on them that your heart deserves?
This post is part of my special Coaching Tips Series. This series was inspired by my clients and the core themes in their challenges. When we can apply these tips, we bring a lot of ease into our lives and step into our leadership. Want to talk it through with me? Call me and let’s make a Game Plan together.