The ideal/real world distinction is a frequent schema for rationalizing setting aside idealistic pursuits. Same goes for calling something “just” a “hobby” or a

The ideal/real world distinction is a frequent schema for rationalizing setting aside idealistic pursuits. Same goes for calling something “just” a “hobby” or a “passion”. Great for parents coaching their teenagers away from rash decisions. But for adults? That “real” world is also inhabited by people who do manage to do all the incredible things. Ikigai can be a wonderful way to think about the things you do, the direction you wish to evolve in. A thought that stirs in me personally - a life split between the thing that makes the money and the thing that is a hobby doesn’t sound balanced. Like, neither the work or the hobby can flourish into its full ideal potential. There is something sad about that, even if it’s still OK.