How to Love What You Do (Even When It Feels Hard)

Let’s be real—there are days when you love your job, and there are days when you fantasize about throwing your laptop (or, in my case, my med kit) into the ocean and starting fresh as a professional beach bum. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. Work, no matter how much you love it, isn’t always fun. But learning how to find joy in your career—even in the toughest moments—can make all the difference.

I’m no stranger to burnout. Hell, I started a whole second business because of it. Being a full-time athletic trainer has always been a passion, but it also comes with long hours, physical demands, and the emotional weight of caring for athletes day in and day out. When I launched my virtual assistant business, I wasn’t just looking for extra income; I was searching for a way to regain balance in my life.

What I didn’t expect? The growth I’ve experienced as a VA has completely changed my perspective on athletic training. I’ve learned to set boundaries, focus on what truly fulfills me, and even rediscover the aspects of my job that once brought me joy. And that’s what I want to share with you: how to love what you do, even when it feels hard.

1. Remember Why You Started

When work feels overwhelming, take a step back and remember why you started in the first place. What drew you to your field? What impact do you make? In my case, I became an athletic trainer because I love helping athletes perform at their best and recover safely. When I started feeling burnt out, I realized I needed to shift my focus back to the moments that made my work meaningful, like seeing an athlete return to play after an injury or mentoring students. Your “why” (I know, insert eye roll here) is your anchor, so revisit it often.

2. Find Ways to Grow and Evolve

Feeling stagnant can make any job feel miserable. I found myself craving something different, which led me to virtual assistance. At first, it was just a side gig, but it quickly became a space where I could develop new skills and push myself in ways that my full-time job didn’t allow. The cool part? The confidence and growth I experienced as a VA spilled over into my athletic training career, making me a stronger leader and problem solver. Learning something new, whether it’s a certification, a passion project, or a different approach to your current role, can reignite your enthusiasm for what you do.

3. Create a Work Environment That Supports You

Let’s be honest: your workspace can make or break your mood. If you’re stuck in a chaotic, stressful environment, it’s easy to feel drained. Find ways to make your space more enjoyable. For me, that meant adding small comforts to my athletic training room (think: good playlists, snacks, and a solid caffeine stash). As a VA, it meant curling up with my laptop on the couch. Whether it’s adding personal touches to your workspace or setting up routines that make your day run smoother, small changes can have a big impact.

4. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them)

Burnout often happens when you’re giving too much without refilling your own cup. I used to be the athletic trainer who said “yes” to everything, which led to exhaustion and resentment. My VA business taught me the importance of setting clear boundaries. Now, I’m more intentional about my time. I schedule breaks, protect my off-hours, and say no when necessary. Boundaries aren’t selfish; they’re essential to sustaining long-term passion for your work.

5. Focus on the People, Not Just the Tasks

At the end of the day, the relationships you build in your career matter more than the to-do list. Some of my toughest days as an athletic trainer have been made better by the athletes I work with. Some of my most stressful VA projects have turned into incredible collaborations. The people around you, whether it’s coworkers, clients, or those you serve, can be a source of joy and motivation. Invest in those relationships, and your work will feel more meaningful.

6. Celebrate the Small Wins

When you’re deep in the daily grind, it’s easy to overlook your accomplishments. But those little victories? They matter. Maybe you handled a difficult situation well, wrapped up a big project, or just made it through the week without losing your sanity, celebrate it! Recognizing progress (no matter how small) helps you stay motivated and appreciate your journey.

7. Give Yourself Permission to Pivot

Sometimes, the best way to love what you do is to change how you do it. My VA business didn’t just help me avoid burnout; it helped me redefine what success looks like for me. Maybe your current role needs a shake-up. Maybe you need a side project, a new challenge, or even a career shift. It’s okay to evolve and find new ways to engage with your work.

8. Remember: Hard Doesn’t Mean Bad

Some days are just rough. That’s life. But just because something feels hard doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. The key is recognizing when challenges are temporary versus when they signal a need for change. Learning to embrace the ups and downs while keeping perspective can make even the hardest days feel more manageable.

Final Thoughts

Loving what you do doesn’t mean you have to enjoy every second of it. It means finding ways to reconnect with your passion, adapt when needed, and create an environment that supports your well-being. Whether it’s through growth, boundaries, or a fresh perspective, you can find joy in your career—even on the hard days.

And if all else fails, just remember: there’s always ice cream. Or a side hustle. Or, you know, a backup plan to become a beach bum.