This doesn't apply if you are in financial need or have circumstances that force you to live in some way. I am lucky to grow up in Denmark where the safety net is so good that most people have the freedom to pursue what they want. I've met a lot of people that have huge dreams (including myself). But often they are not actively pursuing them. They have a philosophy that they first need to learn something, have more money behind them or get the right timing. They often end up in a long education or more generic job to collect this experience or money that will help them later try to go achieve their real goal. Something that I have stood by as I choose what to spend my own time on, is that all of the things that I need to help me achieve my goals, I will be able to get those the fastest if I am actively pursuing my goals. Investors have lots of capital and love throwing it after people with big ambitions. Learning most often comes from doing. Network is easily created when you have a reason to reach out, and you are doing something that excites people. I will actively pursue the goal that I believe in the very most. If you get caught up doing things to prepare for what you really want to do, you may spend your whole life preparing. When you really want something, the whole universe aspires to help you achieve it - The Alchemist