Do the right thing, so you can do the thing right.

Doing the right thing means lining up what you care about with what you get paid for. When I’m working on something I actually want to exist, the work is better. That’s the whole tip.

Turn your hobby into your work.

My dad always said, “Turn your hobby into your work, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” This wisdom has guided me to choose jobs and projects that challenge and excite me. My passion for what I do ensures I deliver my best, and I am privileged enough to have been able to pick a profession in an area I care about. The right work energizes you. The wrong work drains you. You usually know which one you’re on.

Why Passion and Ethics Matter

In any job, the drive to do exceptional work stems from a passion and a solid ethical foundation. Here’s what that gets you:

Quality of Work: When you are passionate about the projects you undertake, it shows in the quality of your work. Passion fuels perseverance and attention to detail, which are critical for delivering high-quality results.
Sustainability: Working on something you believe in sustains your energy and can recharge you. This can make the difference between burning out and thriving in your career.
Ethical Framework: If you’d be uncomfortable explaining the decision out loud to the whole team, it’s the wrong decision.

Integrating Passion and Ethics into Your Work

Some ways to keep the two lined up:

Choose Projects and Jobs That Seem Fun: Have fun with it! How will you inspire others to have fun if you’re not having fun? How are you going to create great work?
Choose Projects and Jobs Aligned with Your Values: Seek out projects that resonate with your personal and professional values. This alignment naturally enhances your commitment and satisfaction.
Advocate for Your Beliefs: When faced with ethical dilemmas or decisions, speak up. Advocating for what you believe is right is crucial in maintaining ethical standards and integrity.

To do your job right, start by doing the right thing. Think about the last few jobs you took. Which ones gave you energy, and which ones took it? Pick more of the first kind.