Acting on Our Ambition and True Calling

At the heart of our being lies ambition. Embracing this ambition means heeding the unique call of our soul. Neglecting it equates to turning away from our true selves and life’s purpose.

When we shy away from pursuing our real calling, we often find ourselves in shadow careers—jobs that mimic our genuine aspirations yet carry minimal risk. Failing in these shadow roles doesn’t sting because they aren’t what we genuinely desire.

Consider this: someone might pursue a Ph.D. in Elizabethan studies, all while being too afraid to write. Reflect on what your present life truly signifies.

I once believed I could escape by merely wandering, convinced I was living freely while those around me were ensnared. However, this was self-deception; I wasn't writing or confronting my fears—I was stagnant.

Living as an Amateur

Clinging to a shadow existence pushes us further from our authentic purpose, making it increasingly difficult to muster the courage to change.

There’s little distinction between an artist and an addict. The addict embodies amateurism, while the artist operates at a professional level.

Addiction can manifest through distractions like browsing the web, texting, or mindlessly engaging with social media. These diversions inhibit us from pursuing our true calling—our work, our destiny, and ultimately our best selves.

Committing to your passion is challenging. It demands effort, risk, and vulnerability. Once you transition to a professional mindset, life becomes more straightforward. Zen monks, artists, and entrepreneurs often lead lives that are simple and unobtrusive.

The amateur thrives on ego, using personal struggles to draw attention. They construct an image or persona instead of concentrating on genuine work. When we embrace professionalism, the energy once spent on shadow pursuits can be redirected to our true passions.

Addicts are uninteresting because they fail to engage in meaningful work. Their repetitive cycles lead nowhere, akin to riding a carousel—endless yet unproductive.

Overcoming Distraction and Resistance

Distractions, often perceived as innocuous—whether through pleasure, romance, or leisure—gradually erode our lives, one instance at a time. Resistance keeps us superficial and unfocused, making the trivial seem enticing.

Upon deciding to turn pro, I eliminated distractions. I set aside a weekly budget of $25, channeling my focus solely into my work. With a book to complete, it was a matter of urgency: no TV, no radio, no social media, just relentless work.

That year dedicated to focus transformed me into a professional, providing uninterrupted time to truly engage and confront my fears.

The habits and addictions of the amateur are self-inflicted wounds that lead to incapacity. Avoiding the real battle of becoming who we are meant to be results in stagnation. The amateur is paralyzed by the fear of rejection and is mired in self-importance, spinning endless plans that never materialize.

But the truth is, the world is too busy with its own issues to concern itself with yours.

Turning Pro: A Daily Commitment

Embracing professionalism simplifies our lives. It’s about organizing our days to confront past fears, strategically planning our actions to achieve our goals, and adhering to this plan with resolve.

Turning pro resembles breaking a bad habit—it’s a daily choice, much like a twelve-step program. Every day, a professional faces the same challenges and temptations but chooses not to yield. They have mastered these hurdles and will keep doing so.

Carl Jung suggested that we might encounter five significant dreams in our lives—dreams that provoke profound changes in our consciousness.

The professional exhibits qualities that the amateur lacks:

• The professional shows up consistently.
• The professional dedicates the entire day to their work.
• The professional commits long-term, recognizing the stakes as high and genuine.
• The professional displays patience and seeks order.
• The professional demystifies complexities.
• The professional acts despite fear.
• The professional accepts no excuses.
• The professional plays the cards they’re dealt.
• The professional prepares thoroughly.
• The professional refrains from seeking attention.
• The professional dedicates time to mastering their craft.
• The professional is unafraid to ask for help.
• The professional separates personal identity from their work.
• The professional endures challenges and self-validates.
• The professional adapts and reinvents themselves.
• The professional earns recognition from their peers.

The Reward of Labour

As Krishna wisely stated, we are entitled to our labor but not to its results. The act of playing the piano or creating art offers its own rewards.

When we admire qualities in others, it’s often because we have those same traits within us but are hesitant to embrace them.

Professionals steer clear of idolization, as it can be harmful to both the idol and the admirer. A disciplined practice involves adhering to a strict routine that enhances the mind and spirit. It requires daily commitment, will, and concentration, establishing a sacred space for creativity.

Ultimately, our efforts and sacrifices benefit the audience—readers, moviegoers, visitors, and listeners. In the hero’s journey, the wanderer returns home bearing gifts for the community, earned through trials and experiences.

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