"Si no te gusta lo que estás haciendo, entonces no lo hagas."

Sometimes, life boils down to a simple truth: if you’re not enjoying what you’re doing, stop doing it. This idea is straightforward but deeply impactful. It nudges us to evaluate our daily activities and, more importantly, our larger life choices. Are you stuck in a job that drains your spirit? Are you pursuing a hobby that no longer brings you joy? It might be time to pivot.

This advice is timeless, and its relevance spans across different stages of life and historical contexts. Take the late 20th century, for example. During the 1960s and 70s, there was a cultural movement suggesting people should drop out of societal expectations if they felt unfulfilled. It was an era of self-discovery and rebellion against the status quo. This period highlighted the significance of personal happiness and authenticity over societal pressures.

Consider an example: Sarah, a marketing executive, climbs the corporate ladder quickly but feels increasingly unfulfilled. She's always been passionate about baking — something she’s done on weekends to relax. One day, fed up with her mundane routine and office politics, she decides to turn her passion into a profession. She starts her own bakery. It’s risky, sure, but as she dedicates herself to this new venture, the joy she finds in creating and sharing her baked goods transforms her life. She wakes up excited, faces challenges with a smile, and finally feels fulfilled.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by doing some introspection. Ask yourself: Do I enjoy what I’m doing daily? If the answer is no, it's time to explore what's draining your enthusiasm. Is it the work itself, the environment, or maybe something deeper? Once you identify the root cause, brainstorm alternatives. It doesn’t mean you have to quit your job tomorrow, but start taking steps toward what excites you. Maybe it means shifting departments, taking up a new hobby, or even planning a career change.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. Think of telling them about a time when you were in high school. You loved painting, but as you grew up, you shifted to a more "practical" career path — maybe accounting. It paid the bills, but each day felt like a drag. Then, one day, you decided to pick up a brush again. You dedicated your weekends to painting, and before you knew it, you started selling your artwork online. People loved it! Your side hustle grew, and eventually, you were able to leave your 9-to-5 job. Now, you're doing what you love and making a living from it. Your friend, sipping their latte, listens intently, thinking about their own suppressed passions.

This advice doesn't advocate being irresponsible or making hasty decisions without a safety net. It's about listening to your inner voice and giving yourself permission to pursue what truly makes you happy. Life's too short to spend it doing things that don't bring you joy. So, if your heart's not in it, maybe it's time to seek a path that makes you come alive.