Some call it the worst generation in American history.

Some call it the best thing to ever happen to this country.

Whichever way one chooses to look at it, it is clear that the Millennial generation, populated by those born between the 1980s and the early 2000s, are marked with distinct traits that set them apart from any other group in the country.

They are often criticized for their incessant need to satisfy their own wants and pursue their own dreams. On the other hand, they are admired for their entrepreneurship, unpredictability and creativity. Unlike the generation that sprouted from the baby boom, or the children born out of the Great Depression, Millennials often refuse to work at a “mundane” desk job or conform to traditional beliefs.

Though members of Generation Y are proudly unique individuals, one rule of life they all seem to follow is that there is none. One motto they share is, “Do what you love.” The saying became popular in 2005 after Steve Jobs gave a commencement speech to Stanford’s graduating class, when he said, “I’m convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You’ve got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Such an adage is pretty in concept.  It champions individualism and freedom of choice. It rejects any obligation to fulfill the world’s expectations that one may feel pressured by.

Yet, the pithy saying has flaws.  After hearing it, one can understand the argument that Millennials are entitled and selfish. What ever happened to honorable, but unlovable work? The statement that great work can only  come from work that you love diminishes the deserved respect for employees such as garbage men, electricians, or construction workers.  Chances are most garbage men didn’t grow up fantasizing about being in such a profession. Each of those jobs are necessary, and people should recognize the importance of people who fulfill these less-coveted roles.

“Do what you love” can also only apply to a select few. Unfortunately, choice is a privilege that not many people are given.  Those who can do what they are passionate about must already have sufficient means to support themselves, and little responsibility to others. And oftentimes, doing what one is passionate about does not necessarily mean a steady income. You might have a passion for painting hermit crab shells, but it’d be impossible to support yourself or your family while pursuing this passion. This kind of unawareness towards reality is exactly what makes Millennials so disliked by other generations.

“Do what you love” isn’t bad advice. One should always keep in mind what he or she is actually passionate about not only while considering careers, but in any situation. Yet, Millennials have to accept that sometimes you won’t always receive the privilege to “do what you love.”