“Shark Tank” investor Robert Herjavec has shared valuable career advice for Gen Z professionals navigating today’s job market. According to Herjavec, life is not about following your passion, but rather about finding what you are obsessed with.
The Difference Between Passion and Obsession
Fellow billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban once told Herjavec, “Life doesn’t care about your passion, and I don’t care about your passion. What I want to know is, what are you obsessed with?” Herjavec explains that passion is easy because it’s a wish, but obsession is an action. You are not required to do anything by passion, but you have to give your all for an obsession.
Similar Views from Other Successful Entrepreneurs
Investor Naval Ravikant shares a similar view, stating that if you’re not 100% into something, someone else who is 100% into it will outperform you. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, exemplifies this intensity, having to remove the strategy game Polytopia because his obsession with it was taking up too many brain cycles.
Contrasting Perspectives
However, entrepreneur Scott Galloway offers a contrasting perspective, cautioning that anyone who tells you to follow your passion is already rich.
Long-Term Thinking Over Quick Decisions
Herjavec’s own career path is a testament to the importance of long-term thinking. Before discovering cybersecurity, he considered roles as an FBI detective and in film. He stresses that obsession can’t be manufactured overnight and doesn’t have to come from a first job. When you’re young, you may feel a desperation about tomorrow, but it’s essential to consider the big picture and not make snap decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Life is not about following your passion, but rather about finding what you are obsessed with.
- Passion is easy, but obsession is an action that requires dedication and hard work.
- Long-term thinking is crucial, and obsession can’t be manufactured overnight.
- Consider the big picture and don’t make snap decisions, especially when you’re young.
By following these principles, Gen Z professionals can set themselves up for success and find a career path that truly fulfills them.