America was built on the premise of following your dreams. Today, that maxim is applied to everyday life, especially careers. Youve probably seen plenty of advice about turning your hobby into your job and making money doing what you love. Unfortunately, it usually doesnt translate well into business reality.
Look at it this way: the reason you picked up your hobby in the first place was probably because you enjoyed it. Hobbies are supposed to be fun. If your hobby becomes your business, youll have to work at it! Hard work is rewarding, but it can quickly douse the spark of fun you previously derived from your hobby.
Still not convinced? Heres something else to consider everyone Ive met who own a golf, fishing, or scuba-diving business tells me they play, dive or get on the water less than before. Owning a business that is related to your hobby will not get you more involved in the enjoyable part. Instead, it will take you away from the fun of the hobby.
Objectivity is another major concern when it comes to translating a hobby to a business. For example, lets say you enjoy fishing, so you decide to open a fishing supply store. You will typically stock your...