Career Advice: At age 25, would you pursue a good paying corporate job that makes you unhappy or a hobby that makes you happy but has no guarantee to pay the bills?

By Carlos Padial III, CFP®
Everyone is different but at 29 now and a successful entrepreneur doing what i love, looking back at when I was 25 I would say this...there is a reason big corporations are so successful and there is a lot to be learned from working in that kind of environment.  But, work in something your interested in.  My young clients think all corporate jobs are rigid.  But I have clients and friends who work in Action Sports for DC, SkullCandy, MTV, VH1 and Mophie and they are ...

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flown around the world throwing events and have a "corporate job" and LOVE it.  You get a glimpse first hand of what YOUR entrepreneurial COULD Grow into one day.  You will probably get paid much better than working in a small business, you will get benefits and typically have extensive training programs.  Simply put, if you want to be the best, train from the best.  While you are getting paid well and trained in your field, begin to pursue YOUR passion/hobby/interest.  Do this in your spare time.  If you are considering venturing on your own get used to working long hours.  Test your product/service get feedback and remember to have a PLAN.  Also, securing financing PRIOR to leaving a corporate position is very important.  Do it while you have a steady paycheck.  Once you have gotten experience and have a clear PLAN for your exit, and maybe even enough sode income to replace your current, jump!  
Treat your corporate torture as a paid education or work for someone you want to become and admire until your 30 or ready to jump.  Don't be afraid to work your way up.  Corporations lose money when they have to fire people, they rather promote from within.  Think about it!  Read as many books as you can and always Think. Plan. Grow!
- Carlos Padial III, CFP®
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