You know money doesn’t grow on trees. And most of it doesn’t come from allowance, either. To have it, you’ve got to earn it. That’s where having a job comes in.

If that sounds like a bummer, think again. It certainly doesn’t have to be. Just think about the rewards of working—not just the cash in your pocket, but the chance to learn new things, to get really good at what you do, and to make great friends.

Think about the things you like to do for fun. Lots of those hobbies and talents could lead to a job doing something you love! If you have an eye for taking great photos, you might consider photojournalism. If following the stock market is your thing, maybe you’re headed for Wall Street. Or, if you love kids, think about being a pediatrician.

A terrific first step in exploring a career is zeroing in on a job where you can get your feet wet in that kind of work. It might take a little more time to find what you’re looking for, but the payoff can be major down the road.