Dear Loser,
I hate my accounting job and I've always dreamed of being a potter. Should I quit and follow my passion? — Clay-Curious in Cleveland
Dear Clay-Curious,
Don't quit your job to follow your passion. That's the advice nobody gives because it doesn't make a good movie. But here's the thing: movies are two hours long. Your bills are monthly.
Here's what I'd actually suggest: keep the accounting job. Take a pottery class on evenings or weekends. See if you like pottery when it's not a fantasy and starts being a reality — when you have to do it on a schedule, when the clay doesn't cooperate, when you realize that "making beautiful ceramics" involves a lot of wedging and kiln monitoring and failed glazes. Some people discover their passion becomes a chore when it becomes an obligation. Better to find that out while you still have health insurance.
If, after six months of pottery classes, you still love it — if you love the process, not just the idea — then start selling pieces on the side. Build up enough income to cover your expenses. Then, and only then, consider quitting. This is not inspiring advice. It will not be featured in a commencement speech. But it's the advice that doesn't end with you broke and disillusioned, sitting in a cold studio surrounded by lopsided mugs that nobody wants to buy.
Your passion is valid. Your rent is also valid. They can coexist.
— The Loser