2 completely different jobs; which one should I pursue?

[LostAngels]

I have two dream jobs, the latter being one I've wanted to pursue since I was a very young age, and for all the right reasons. I'm entirely capable of this, and know that it would be the right job for me to feel thoroughly fulfilled and like I've accomplished a lot in life.*

My options are 1: Moving to LA once out of high school and getting a job through my cousin, who works in the music industry. She's 23, and has toured with MCR, Linkin Park, Lostprophets, etc.*
2: Becoming a criminal prosecutor.*

Most people would see the more 'business-type' job as being the life choice that would leave them feeling regretful.*
But considering my compassionate, persevering characteristics and undying motivation to make a difference in the world, it's what I want to do.*
I'm incredibly fascinated in the psychology of the criminal mind; I write letters to serial killers weekly. (My active pen pal list is about 20 people long.)

However, my life also revolves around music. Entirely.*
And though I don't listen to 'today's music' (at all), I think like I'd be missing a HUGE opportunity not to take this offer from my cousin, considering how big of a chance it is, and how many people strive to work in that industry.*
I love music, and would be eternally grateful to be surrounded in a musical environment all day, every day.*

So, I'm quite confused here, and would really appreciate some advice on how to make this decision.*
I'm only half way through eleventh grade, so it isn't something that needs to be decided instantly. But it's getting to be about that time.

What do I need to take in to consideration here?

[Iris. ♥]

Originally Posted by LostAngels

I have two dream jobs, the latter being one I've wanted to pursue since I was a very young age, and for all the right reasons. I'm entirely capable of this, and know that it would be the right job for me to feel thoroughly fulfilled and like I've accomplished a lot in life.

In a way, you answered your own question. Being a criminal prosecutor is something that you've been dreaming of since you were young! You have what a lot of people don't have -- the ability to follow through on your childhood dream. Sure, the music thing is a great opportunity. But, is that really where your passion is? If it's not, don't go that route. You'll end up regretting it. Do what's going to make YOU the happiest.

There's a quote by a man named Jason Russell that I like to live by. He said, "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive because what the world needs is for you to be alive." From the way you wrote this thread, it sounds to me like being a criminal prosecutor is what is going to make you come alive. Screw what everyone else thinks, and do that. If, in time, your passion does change into that of the music industry or something entirely different, follow that. My point: do what you're passionate about, not what the world says you should be passionate about.

Hope this helped!

[Kaisada]

"finding your passion isnt just about careers and money. Its about finding your authentic self. The one you've buried beneath other peoples needs."

There isn't really any -one- path that is decisively better than another. Everything we do can be a great source of fulfillment for ourselves as well as service to others - it all depends on whether or not it is compatible with us; whether or not it aligns with our deepest aspirations. My father always told me to "know myself - strengths and weaknesses" and let that be my guide in deciding my future. Not only what you feel called to in your heart, but also what comes most naturally to you in action and the process of doing - not just feeling, experiencing, and thinking.

Also,please don't feel pressured to think that you must decide the rest of your life - one can say that until we've experienced the life of a particular path for ourselves, we can't truly say without a doubt that it is right for us. If you choose something with the best spirit and it ends up not working out, that's okay, you can still come back to the fork in the road and try the other way! And if that isn't possible, for example if your cousin's offer is a once in a lifetime offer, then that might also be a factor to consider when making the decision.

Try not to worry too much - a lot can happen in a year and a half. Trust your heart.

[Chris.]

I agree with the others 100%. Find something where you don't call it a job, and you don't have to hassle yourself to wake up in the morning.

Which one will you love doing most? Which one will make you happier? These are the important questions you need to answer. Sure, money is important, but no job is worth the money if you are utterly sick and tired of it. Your life is too short to do something you wont fall in love with.


Best wishes,
Chris