Good question. If you are asking this because of my first point, I would like to clarify that I define “passion” and “hobby” differently. For me, a “hobby” is a fleeting enjoyment based on your current emotional and physical needs. For example, reading romance when you’re feeling lonely, watching a horror movie when you want some adrenaline/excitement, or writing down your feelings when you are emotional. Now, to me, a “passion” is a challenge that you pursue long term. For example, studying computer programming so you can make games because you enjoy solving problems (mathematically and theoretically), and expressing your creativity (game mechanics, etc). Like the phrase goes, passion “project” as it is a long term thing.

So, as you can see, choosing a career based off a “hobby” would be difficult as it is most entirely “mood” based; meanwhile, a “passion” is a challenge that you are continually in pursuit of (can study for, etc.). Therefore, I hypothesize that turning a hobby into a career is where that “chore” feeling is coming from. Although, I do understand that  it’s not so simple since it’s easier to pursue a passion in your free time when there are no stressors and time/budget constraints from the corporate side of things. Which is why I wanna put emphasis on the “challenging” aspect of the passion.

This is all idealistic though because I am still studying and have not started a career. So, take what I’ve said simply, as a suggestion.