New Delhi, Nov. 5 -- The most pervasive, yet financially hazardous, career advice given to young professionals is to "follow your passion, and the money will follow". It sounds inspiring on a poster, but in an Indian economy defined by intense competition, rising costs and limited state-sponsored social security, turning an unproven passion into your primary source of income is a high-stakes gamble, especially for a middle-class household.

When rent is due and a medical emergency strikes, the pressure to monetize a passion quickly can destroy the joy of pursuing it. The data points to a more resilient approach: chase financial security first and build a cushion that allows you to pursue your ambitions without putting your livelihood at r...