That mantra may seem like the Holy Grail – something that many people search and strive for, but never find. It remains elusive and out of reach, and we start to wonder whether it even really exists.

It does. It’s very possible to do what you love, and love what you do. And not starve in the process.

Melissa Olson, the woman who owns the Curves facility where I work out, is an excellent example of this. She loves what she does, and the people for whom she does it. And it shows.

“I have the best job in the world,” she said one day as I was walking in the door. Then she looked at me, smiled, and said, “But so do you.” She knew how much I love what I do. And even though I never said it out loud before, I do think I have the best job in the world – the best job for me, anyway.

I’ve just started working with a new coaching client, and within the first 10 minutes of our first call, I found myself so inspired and exhilarated by her that I felt like I should be paying her, rather than the other way around. That’s happened more often than not, especially when I’m working with people I enjoy, admire and respect. What’s not to love about that?

The key is not in the “what” of what you’re doing, but in the “why.” What is it about the work you’re doing — or would like to do — that gives you the most pleasure and satisfaction? It’s an individual thing and can be quite different, even for people who are doing the exact same job. When you figure out what it is that motivates you, that energizes you, and that makes you feel like you’re making a real difference in your own life and in the lives of others, THAT will help direct you to the work – and the life – that allows you to do what you love and love what you do.

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