Yup, you guessed it, owning your own business is hard work – you are living the dream! It isn’t for everyone. Yet, one of the most sought-after dreams is entrepreneurship in America.
Here are my nine (9) favorite things about owning your own business, maybe some of these will align with your beliefs, too.
- Freedom to make decisions on how I want to position my business.
- Ability to work with clients who are anywhere in the country.
- Travel to visit clients, see new places and grateful to have had the opportunity.
- At the end of a day taking a long run around the lake.
- Networking and continuing to learn with professionals I respect and admire.
- Flexibility to help clients who needs a bit more support and shows their appreciation – it feels good.
- Flexibility in setting my schedule to align with family obligations and opportunities I didn’t have when I worked in “Corporate America”.
- Sharing my expertise in financial services with fledgling businesses so they have a greater chance of success.
- Working from home on Monday or Friday to avoid traffic – or, even on a snow day, which came in handy this month a few times.
Don’t get me wrong, I know that entrepreneurship and business ownership isn’t sunshine and roses every day, I have been doing this for nine years now (thus the 9 reasons listed above, one for each year!)
It is true that some months you may not hit your goals meaning you have to work harder the next month to make up for trailing performance, or work on the weekend, nearly every weekend. But…I am in control of my own destiny and the time and effort I dedicate to my business allows me the opportunity to give my children the chance to go to college. Also, most importantly, it gives me the freedom to spend time with my family and friends.
Overall, I wouldn’t have it any other way and I appreciate that there are several professionals on whom I rely for my business to make things happen – people who provide services that help me help my clients. If you are thinking you would like to venture out on your own and want to know more about how to do it, please ask. I am happy to help.
~ Mary Ann
PS While entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone, it is worth considering. Read more about how I started my business.