If money were out of the equation, would you still work? If yes, why, and how much? If not, what would you do with your free time?

---

Ordinarily, this should have been a hypothetical situation.

But I have been out of a paying job for so long that I now feel well qualified to answer this question.

I find it hard to not do something with my time and while most of my efforts are aimed towards getting a job or clearing a pathway towards one, I think my response would have been the same had money been out of the equation.

However, I would probably not be as serious or dedicated about it. It all depends on your surroundings and the environment you are in.

If you are the only person slogging and you see others around you enjoying themselves, it is that much harder to motivate yourself. There is much to be said about returning to the classroom or university setting. But that may not be an option for all.

A conducive environment is a necessity for pursuing activities that require quiet and deep reflection. Surely not a monastery?

That said, I digress.

What would I do with my free time?

I guess I’d read—a lot. Learn to play a musical instrument or two.

Write.

Travel—see the world.

Seek adventure in safe doses.

Study.

Exercise regularly.

Meet friends more often.

Volunteer.

Not much different from most people, I guess.

What about you? What would you do?