Renee from San Jose recently called into the Dave Ramsey Show, seeking advice on a dilemma many can relate to – finding the motivation to continue working in a career she loves but that is increasingly overwhelming.

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At 47, Renee is a successful OB-GYN with an impressive financial portfolio: over $3.7 million in retirement and investment accounts, three paid-off homes, a $200,000 salary, and no debt. But despite her financial security, she’s struggling to see a path forward that keeps her passionate about life and work.

If she sticks it out and keeps working until 60, Renee explains she’ll get her pension at 60 instead of waiting until 65. She’ll also get free health care for the rest of her life, so she’s considering working the additional 13 years.

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Renee shared with Dave Ramsey that she loves her job, especially the privilege of seeing patients and delivering babies. However, the demands of her work, especially in the post-COVID landscape, are taking a toll. “Work is overwhelming these days … I always work more than my paid hours,” she admitted. Renee has a dream outside of medicine – attending music school, where she could pursue her passion for playing the piano and violin.

Dave’s response was clear: “You don’t need motivation to work for 13 more years if you love everything about it. What is it you don’t like?” He encouraged Renee to focus on what brings her joy rather than getting bogged down by the demanding aspects of her job.

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Dr. John Delony, also on the show, gave key advice: “You don’t need motivation; you need a mission.” He suggested that Renee might be dealing with a sense of lost opportunity. The idea of not pursuing her musical dreams while she’s still able is weighing on her. Delony asked if a sense of guilt or shame was holding her back. Renee didn’t label it as guilt but acknowledged a fear of lost opportunity. “If in the next 13 years I develop arthritis or lose my hearing, will I regret not having taken the chance?” she pondered.

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Dave and John advised Renee to reconsider her practice to create space for her musical pursuits. “Cut your practice in half,” Dave suggested, noting that Renee could afford to scale back without compromising her financial stability. He emphasized the importance of balance: “You get too much joy and satisfaction from your medical career … but it’s eating into what you want to do.”

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John echoed this sentiment, advising her that the decision to reduce her hours doesn’t have to be final. “Guess what, there’s always going to be more babies,” he noted, encouraging her to find a balance that allows her to explore her passion for music without fully stepping away from a career she loves.

Renee’s story reminds us that sometimes the path forward isn’t about choosing between two loves but finding a way to make room for both. By reducing her workload and pursuing her musical dreams, Renee can create a life that fulfills her professionally, financially, and personally. As Dave put it, “The only reason I wouldn’t quit completely is I also think you’ll regret that because I think you get a level of joy out of this.”

This advice is valuable for anyone struggling to balance a demanding career with other life passions. Consulting with a trusted financial advisor can provide clarity and options tailored to your unique circumstances. It’s not only about the numbers – crafting a life that brings fulfillment and purpose, no matter how many years are left on the clock.

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This article 47-Year-Old ‘Unmotivated’ Multimillionaire Doctor Asks Dave Ramsey – Retire Now Or Work 13 More Years To Get Pension And Free Healthcare? originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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