Dear Annie: I followed my passion, but can’t pay the bills. Was it a mistake?

Dear Annie:

I’m 28 and work as a graphic designer at a small marketing agency. I’ve always loved art and design, and it felt like a dream to turn something creative into a career. I’ve worked hard—took on unpaid internships, freelanced nights and weekends, and finally landed a full-time job where I get to do what I’m good at.

The problem is, I’m starting to feel stuck financially. I make enough to get by, but just barely. I rent a tiny apartment with two roommates, I’m still paying off student loans, and I’ve had to say no to things like weddings or trips because I can’t afford them.

Meanwhile, my college friends—who went into finance, law or tech—are buying homes, getting promotions and talking about their 401(k)s. I can’t help but compare. I feel like I followed my passion and they fo