A lot of life coaches/motivational speakers/etc. talk about pursuing your passions in your career and in your life. Pursuing your passions isn’t always easy, nor is it always a way to provide for yourself or your family.

I’ve been fortunate—what I do in my career is what I’m passionate about. Sure, there are other things I’m passionate about: baking, working out, reading, learning, and more, but when it comes to my career, I am extremely happy with what I do. Not only do I get to develop programs and teach youth and young adults about financial education, but I also get to work within an industry that I am extremely passionate about.

Pursuing your passion can be risky, especially when it involves leaving a paying job for something that pays less or doesn’t pay anything right away. There’s also the fear of failure. These risks and fears probably keep plenty of people from pursuing their passion.

If you’re thinking about going after your passion, one way to prepare yourself is to build a “dream” savings that helps cover your living expenses for three to six months, if not longer. This savings can provide some cushion while you go after your dream.

If you’re still not sure about taking the plunge and going after your passion, try working on it part time in the evenings or weekends until it becomes something you can afford to take on full time.

One of my co-workers recently left her job to stay at home full time with her daughter and pursue her passion—writing. I commend her for taking the step to go after her dream and passion. I truly feel that each person should do what makes them happy.

Are you pursuing your passion?