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I think a person who takes a job in order to live - that…

“I think a person who takes a job in order to live - that is to say, for the money - has turned himself into a slave. Work begins when you don't like what you're doing. There's a wise saying: make your hobby your source of income. Then there's no such thing as work, and there's no such thing as…” quote by Joseph Campbell
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“I think a person who takes a job in order to live - that is to say, for the money - has turned himself into a slave. Work begins when you don't like what you're doing. There's a wise saying: make your hobby your source of income. Then there's no such thing as work, and there's no such thing as getting tired. That's been my own experience. I did just what I wanted to do. It takes a little courage at first, because who the hell wants you to do just what you want to do; they've all got lots of plans for you. But you can make it happen.”

Joseph Campbell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Treating work as a means to live reduces freedom; aligning work with passion eliminates the feeling of labor and fosters fulfillment.

In simple terms: Work becomes joy when it matches your passion.

Key Takeaway

Find work that feels like play.

Themes

freedom passion work life design

Mood

hopeful determined

Type

motivational practical

When to use this quote

  • career transition
  • entrepreneurship
  • creative projects
  • personal development

Key Concepts

Existentialism flow theory self‑determination theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you turn a hobby into sustainable income?
  • What risks are you willing to take for passion?
A Different Perspective

Passion may not pay enough; practical constraints exist.

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