Do the successful people “do what they love, or love what they do?” The former is external to who you are; the other is internal, meaning it’s a choice.

There is a parallel axiom in Zen philosophy: “Before Enlightenment chop wood carry water, after Enlightenment, chop wood carry water.” It’s a matter of finding satisfaction and taking strength from all that you do.

Because of the nature of family businesses, an attitude of “I don’t carry water” can be more prevalent than in a non-family business. It resonates with a perspective of “you give first.” We see it in world politics. Regrettable but true, as individually we have very little control over world events. But we do have control over our own thoughts and actions.

This attitude informs our reactions from time to time in all of our lives. You may be in a position in your family that you don’t like; and you may feel remorse about not having work you like. Oddly enough, the way out is to like the work you are doing. Quoting Seth Godin: “perhaps the more effective mantra for the entrepreneur, the linchpin and maker of change might be, “love what you do. If we can fall in love with serving people, creating value, solving problems, building valuable connections and doing work that matters, it makes it far more likely we’re going to do important work.” http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2014/08/turning-passion-on-its-head.html

Can you equate “loving what you do” with being happy? From my own experience, yes. You can choose to be happy in a less-than-ideal situation. But don’t believe me. Try it. Try it for 2 seconds, then 2 minutes, and then 2 hours. I guarantee, if you can do this for 2 seconds you can chose to be happy at any time in any situation, focusing on the value you provide others, the connections you have, and the people you serve.