Hopefully, by now you have an idea of what your thing is and you’re figuring out how to make it grow and share it with the world.

As you work to make a go of your passion, you need to keep funds coming in while your thing matures. If your passion is already making you millions, Congratulations! *smile*

But maybe your thing is just an infant or a toddler, or an unruly adolescent (who’s always asking for twenty bucks and to borrow the car).

When it comes to making a living, use what you know. I mean everything you know.

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I read this book once that had pages and pages of skills checklists. Everything from dog-walking to making macaroni-covered picture frames was on these lists.

Sure, some of the items seemed silly but these checklists alluded to an important point; make sure when you’re taking inventory of which skills will help you pay the bills while pursing your passion that you include ALL of your skills — even skills that may not have much to do with your passion.

It might be a day job, a temp job, or, as in my case, supplemental projects that help you pay the bills.

For example, in addition to my musical work I’ve gotten paid to:

• design brochures
• write and proofread copy
• read
• bake cookies
• facilitate diversity trainings
• house and pet sit

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While I’ve been known to hum a tune while baking, not much on the list above is about spontaneous singing.

While you’re working to bring your passion into the world, it may be practical to do other work to get by.

BUT …

Do work that leaves you time and energy to continue building your passion.

If you’re working full- or part-time, schedule time to work your passion in your off hours. Even if it’s only an hour or two a week, it’ll add up. Sit down and map out a plan (schedule, checklist) that keeps you on track.

If you’re taking on projects, make sure you reserve time to keep up with your passion. I set aside time each week to write this blog, practice and direct my a cappella ensemble.

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Oh, and don’t keep anything you hate or consider soul-sucking on the list. (You shouldn’t include those things on your resume either.)

After all, being practical is all well and fine, but this is about passion.