Many people go to college to do what they believe they have wanted to do all their lives. The first several years are rewarding, and then they start to realize this is something they are going to do until they retire. They are quickly disillusioned, and they get into a rut.

Many people continue doing what they do out of fear there is nothing else, or they are getting a steady paycheck. The lucky few, however, break away and find their true passion in life.

While starting up a new career may be exciting, it is not necessary to do so in order to do something you love. You can start up a hobby in your spare time, or you can volunteer in your area of interest. Many companies are encouraging their employees to take on more volunteer opportunities. Even if the company’s motives are not altruistic, volunteering can open doors for employees. They can learn new skills or discover ones they were not aware they possessed.

You may decide to escape the rat race and start up your own venture. This will help transform your life in ways that you never imagined. Choosing a business you are passionate about gives you a purpose you may not have gained by staying in your current situation.

This is not to say that starting and running a business is easy. It takes a lot of work and quite a bit of discipline. You become your own boss and have no one to answer to but yourself. While many view this as a good situation to have, it is a double-edged sword. You need to have a good plan in place to help guide you towards success.

A big benefit of having your own business is you are free to make as much money as you want. Assuming you find the right formula for making money, the sky is the limit. You don’t have to beg stingy corporations to try and get a morsel out of them.

More people are discovering that having their own business is the only way to go. They love the challenge and find the work fulfilling, all things being equal. The Internet serves as a great provider of advice and resources to help these businesses succeed. Not everyone is suited to being an entrepreneur. But, for those who empower themselves, they are in it for the long haul with no intention of ever looking back.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2018 issue of CHOICES Magazine