As I delved into the wisdom of Confucius today, I stumbled upon a timeless piece of advice: “Choose a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” This age-old wisdom resonated with me, and it prompted a meaningful conversation with my daughter, Elise, as we settled her tuition bill for the upcoming graduation. Her question, “What should I do after graduation, dad?” ignited a spark within me. Here’s my take on the art of work, Elise, and why choosing the right path is paramount to a fulfilling life and career.

“Elise. For most of my adult life I’ve been involved in finding people jobs. I was always fortunate to have a job I enjoyed.  I only had three after college, all with a good mentor along the journey. I often equated work comparable to my other passions.

My family, my friends, my work, my community, and my love of golf. They all are so enjoyable to me, even though my golf handicap slipped to double digits last year. These passions involve many moving parts, and that’s what makes them so enjoyable. Enjoyment in life, in work, as in golf, comes from constant learning and improvement. From the tools, to equipment, to technology, to gaining knowledge, to being smart, to making good decisions, to teaching, to knowing how to dress, and tip, and behave, and being courteous, and competitive, and fun to be with. It’s all one cocktail.

So for me Elise, to render some sage advice. Make a wise and informed choice. Love what you do, who you do it with, how you do it, and tell people why you love what you do. Choose the right work and you’ll have the same fortune.