When I was young, I was taught that to have a good life, I must secure a stable job. Because of this, I had always thought that once I would start working, I could do anything I want and would be happy. Well, I was happy but that part where I could do anything was not at all possible since having employee responsibilities deterred me from such. Besides that fact, I realized through my years of being an employee that I need to do what I am passionate about for me to have a good life – happy, fulfilled, content.

With only my immeasurable faith in God and the support of my loved ones, I left my stable and promising job as a salesperson. I currently run my own sales training and consulting company, and I truly enjoy it because this is what I want – to help others grow through my share of experiences and learning. This does not mean, however, that it was easy for me to follow this path because there were risks involved. What were those risks?

First was the uncertainty if the kind of service I offer was something that anyone would want to avail, even though I was confident that it is especially beneficial. The second was momentarily losing stability owing to the fact of leaving the comforts of employment, wherein I was only accountable for producing sales and performing a few tasks. Third, which was the effect of resigning from my full-time job, was the possibility of exhausting our life savings before I could even start to earn from this venture.

Clearly, there was much at risk when I followed my passion(heart). Nevertheless, I committed to pushing for it with my unwavering faith, the support of my family, and the motivation of my mentors. Instead of fearing for the future, I focused my energy on how I can achieve the goals I had set to fulfill my vision. When I totally embraced this new journey, I instantly recognized the opportunities that come with it.

One of the opportunities that following my passion brought me was personal growth. On account of having to adjust to my new situation, and of being accountable for everything that involves my venture, I learned new skills and knowledge and developed new qualities. Other than that, I also got all the time to develop myself professionally by attending all the relevant training beneficial to my company. Moreover, following my passion and starting my own company provides me endless possibilities and more opportunities.

Therefore, regardless of the risks that, in one way or another, made me a bit anxious before, I am extremely glad that I took a leap of faith in this venture a few years ago rather than be filled with what-if thoughts.

So if you think that following your passion is too much of a risk, I encourage you to identify if such risk outweighs all the opportunities that can come with it. Why wouldn’t you give it a try if it means obtaining a good life – happy, fulfilled, content?