Working in a world of CAD design, spreadsheets and FDA paperwork its nice to be able to pause, step outside, feel the cold air, and take a photo that I can enjoy. Breath out, then step back inside and go back to work.

I really think there is something to be said for finding a balance between what you love and what you do to pay the bills.  For me its photography, for other people its travel or climbing.

I also would add that balancing work and passion only goes so far as having a clear reason for the work you do. It might just be the job that pays the bills for now till the next better thing comes down the pipes. However, knowing why you’ve got the job you have, even a crummy one to get by, is the key to working on your terms.

The hard part right now is there are fewer jobs out there then there have been in a generation.  But, despite the grim unemployment rates, I’ve also heard several stories of folks who have made the most of it by just staying with it, day after day, persistently.

All that to say, I’m happy for the balance photography brings me.