[1] It is essential for you to do what you want. Your work has to match your goals and ambitions. How much you make is of lesser priority than doing something that is in line with your personal motivations and aspirations, something which brings you closer to your goals. You persist.
[2] It is essential for you to make money and be continuously involved in something. Your work shapes your goals and ambitions, not the other way around. What you do is of inferior importance as long as you make a good living and lead a good life. You adapt.
[EDIT] I constructed this dichotomy to reflect two opposing philosophies and personality inclinations I've been thinking about lately. They are clearly separated in my mind but, judging by the responses so far, I'm not sure I've done the greatest job in translating my thoughts into words. Try to infer the opposing implications and decide where you stand.