Starting a Business Isn't Always The Answer!

It can feel like the great escape we dream of but never actually take.

If you’re feeling miserable at work, pause and reflect—what exactly is missing? Is it autonomy? A chance to be creative? Or is it respect and appreciation?

Before deciding that entrepreneurship is the solution, consider this: maybe you need to stand up for yourself, build a new skill, or even switch industries for a fresh start.

Starting a business is often glamourised, but the reality is tough. It means long hours, a heavy workload, and wearing every hat—finance, sales, and client services all at once. If clients don’t come, neither does the paycheck. It’s often far from the “I’ll-be-my-own-boss-and-make-lots-of-money” fantasy.

Sure, you’ll be your own boss, but are you disciplined and focused? Yes, you can make money, but can you handle multiple rejections and ghosting?

Ask yourself: what's the worst thing that could happen if your business doesn't succeed within the time frame you give it? Is it loosing your house? Kids dropping out of school? Your spouse leaving you? Loosing your car? Walk through your worst nightmare then ask "Do I have the guts and determination to recover from this?"

Yes, we must set goals, hope for the best, surround ourselves with positive people, and take consistent action, but we should also trust the process. The journey often doesn’t play out exactly as planned; we usually go through dark nights and things we could never have anticipated; life happens. Entrepreneurship is no quick fix—it’s a long game.

If you’re still convinced you'll start a business “someday,” begin with setting a realistic date for your resignation—whether it’s 01 March 2026 or 4 September 2029, be specific and share it with someone who can hold you accountable. This moves the idea from daydream to action.

Then, work backward. Map out the skills, savings, and experiences you need to build now so you’re prepared when the time comes.

Even consider starting your business now as a side hustle—get a taste of entrepreneurship and see if it resonates with you.

• If you dream of owning a bakery, start by baking four loaves of bread daily and selling them to neighbours.
• If you want to own a lodge, hire out a section of your home on Airbnb.
• If you’re passionate about empowering young people, start with monthly gatherings in your home.

Find someone who’s already doing what you want to do and ask them to be your mentor—it can accelerate your learning.

At the same time, take ownership of where you are today. Address what holds you back in your current role—do you need to set boundaries? Work on imposter syndrome? Or become more strategic and stop coasting along? Get support, set concrete goals, and put dates on them—the satisfaction you’re craving might be closer than you think.

Stop waiting for “one day” and start making real decisions. Put a stake in the ground and take ownership of your career. Let’s go.