Know Why You Do What You Do
July 21st, 2005
My sister and I were having a conversation a few days ago and the topic of whether or not we’d continue doing what we do if we were filthy rich and financially independent. Without too much thought I told her yes.
Even if I was a bazillionaire, I would still design websites for people because I enjoy it. Well, let me clarify it a little more - I probably wouldn’t take on any new clients unless they were people I knew and respected, but if I had the time and energy, I most certainly would be designing a website if I were asked.
Helping people is also one of my great joys in life. I don’t necessarily do it for the praise (although it doesn’t hurt), I truly enjoy seeing people succeed at what they set out to accomplish.
The fact is, I appreciate and have formed great bonds with many of my clients and in some cases I see my clients as my friends. Frankly, I consider myself to be a loyal person and the last thing I’d ever want to do is leave a friend high and dry. Not only that, many of my clients have treated me quite well and I try very hard to live by the Golden Rule (i.e. do unto others…).
In business, as with anything in life, it’s important to know why you do what you do. What is the end result you hope to achieve from it? Does it ultimately make you feel happy and complete? If you were a bazillionaire, would you still be doing it? If you answered no, then it’s most likely time for a re-evaluation.
#1 Hock wrote…
August 10th, 2005 at 6:54 amHi Teli,
I like the design of your blog. Very cool. Let me know when you become a bazillionaire. I’ll have some design projects for you then.
#2 Debbie wrote…
August 22nd, 2005 at 12:17 amI completely agree with you. I quit my job as an environmental planner in June to go back to school, and simultaneously launched my website design business on the side.
I’ve been doing web design (for free) for the past ten years or so, but yes, I do love it so much that I’d do it even if I were rich. It’s the perfect blend of artistry, technology and helping people and is the best job I’ve ever had.
#3 andrea wrote…
September 26th, 2005 at 1:31 amhi teli -
you know, i’m so relieved to hear you say this.
last year, a person who was a pretty key mentor in my business told me that i was like ’sarah the pie maker’ - this is a character in michael gerber’s emyth book.
and while i know it was meant to encourage me, when i finally read the book i realized it wasn’t exactly a compliment… you see, sarah was a pie maker and her business wasn’t doing great. one observation is that sarah loves what she does - she loves to make pies.
so what was the tip? i think it was basically a message to say (to me) that I shouldn’t love what i do as that was too much about the task vs. making money.
but i want to enjoy my life - and i think you’re right. even if i had a million dollars (like the bare naked ladies song)… i think i would still do what i do (like you - drop the pita clients) and just enjoy things a little more
thanks! you made my day
#4 Teli wrote…
September 28th, 2005 at 11:17 amHi Andrea,
I’m actually glad to see your face here (virtually of course) - I’m a lurker on your blog :). And I’m also glad that this entry was able to help put some things in perspective for you.
Life is definitely what you make of it, so there’s no reason not to enjoy yourself!
#5 Teli wrote…
September 28th, 2005 at 11:24 amDebbie,
I’m glad to hear you’re taking the bulls by the horns - life is definitely not a spectator sport :D.
Remember - there is nothing wrong with being paid or fairly compensated for your services/skills.
I do quite a bit of pro bono work, but I also have a firm understanding that I still need to be able to take care of myself.
I always remind myself of what a flight attendant says before we lift off - if the mask drops, put it on yourself before you assist someone else - you can’t save someone else’s life if you’re dead. Drastic, but accurate.
Make sure you’re fed, clothed, and taken care of because you can do far more good for the world if you are well off.
It really is a balance game - all things in moderation (to include giving away free web design) ;).
#6 Maketta wrote…
February 21st, 2006 at 11:25 amI totally agree with you about enjoying what you do. I also wanted to say that you have a really nice blog and it is put together so nicely.