4. The Labor of Love Trap

The “do what you love” mindset can be exploitative. It convinces people—especially in creative and care-driven industries—to accept underpayment or overwork because “it’s a dream job.” Love doesn’t pay rent. Your time and labor still deserve boundaries, even if your work feels fulfilling.

5. You Don’t Need a Dream Job—Just a Decent One

There’s freedom in letting go of the fantasy. A good job doesn’t have to define you—it just has to support a life that does. Passion can live in your weekends, your side projects, or your relationships. The less pressure you put on work to complete you, the more space you have to actually live.