If you've ever felt stuck between what you want to do and what you have to do, you're not alone.

For many professionals, there's a clear divide: the work that energises them and the work that pays the mortgage. The dream vs. the duty. But what if that divide isn’t fixed? What if you could redesign your life to include both?

The False Choice

We’re often taught to pick one:

- Do what you love, and accept instability.

- Do what’s safe, and put your passions on the shelf.

It’s a toxic either/or. In reality, most fulfilling careers are built on and. Purpose and profit. Passion and pragmatism.

But it takes intention to build that kind of life. It doesn’t happen by accident.

First, Define What “Lights You Up” Actually Means

Doing what lights you up isn’t just about hobbies or fleeting excitement. It’s deeper.

It’s the work that:

- Engages your strengths

- Aligns with your values

- Gives you a sense of meaning

- Leaves you feeling energised, not drained

This can show up in many forms - a career shift, a side project, creative expression, community work, or building something of your own.

Second - Get Clear on Your Current Reality

Yes, bills need paying. So do credit cards, school fees, and that endless cycle of life admin.

But too many people stay stuck because they never stop to look at the options. They assume change is impossible - without ever running the numbers, exploring alternatives, or seeking support.

Here's a simple exercise to shift that:

1. List your current income streams and fixed expenses

2. Identify how much “buffer” you actually need (not just assumed)

3. Explore how your skills could be repackaged or repositioned to generate income doing what you enjoy

You might discover there’s more flexibility than you thought.

Third — Start Where You Are

You don’t need to quit your job overnight or throw caution to the wind. But you can start injecting more of what lights you up into your week.

Try:

- A few hours a week on a side project

- A short course to build a new skill or pivo

- Offering a freelance service in an area you love

- Having a bold conversation about role redesign

Even small steps can build momentum. Confidence grows through action, not just planning.

So, Can You Have Both?

Yes. But it won’t land in your lap.

Having both fulfilment and financial security requires clarity, courage, and a plan. That’s where coaching can help - not to give you answers, but to help you ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and design your next move with purpose.

You deserve more than just a life that works. You deserve a life that lights you up.

Ready to take the next step? Book a free Discovery Call today and start building a career that works for you.