There are many different things that can motivate people to do the things they do. For some folks, the size of the paycheque matters less than the prestige associated with the job. A professional plumber can make just as much as a lawyer and more than a banker, but our society tends to place a lower level of prestige on more physical jobs. Others are motivated to save up enough to put their kids through school. Others still are more interested in art for art’s sake.

With the growing proliferation of “make money online” blogs, it has become obvious that a large demographic is motivated by the almighty dollar. While I don’t believe that there is anything inherently wrong with working smarter and harder just to make more money, I do feel that you shouldn’t chase the buck for its own sake. It is imperative that you have specific goals, S.M.A.R.T. goals.

This will give you a greater sense of direction in life, because you’ll know what you’re shooting for. Having a million dollars in your bank account is not nearly as satisfying as owning a million dollar home, for example. Life is meant to be enjoyed. Life is about seeking happiness in whatever form suits you best. Others may disagree, but I feel that money for its own sake is worthless. It’s more about what that money can provide. It’s about that Caribbean cruise you’ve been wanting or that hot red convertible you’ve been eyeing.

Even when it comes to an evil panda slayer like John Chow, it’s clear that he derives a greater sense of joy and pride from his daughter Sally than he does by the tons of money he makes through his blog. He may be passionate about monetization and affiliate marketing, but I’m sure that he’d agree that Sally is much more important than all of that. Most of what he makes through John Chow dot Com is being set aside for Sally’s trust fund.

Chase money. There’s nothing wrong with that. But chase it with a very specific purpose in mind. And don’t forget to find a healthy life-work balance too.