Positive or negative? Depends on how you look at it

Whatever it takes, you must have a positive attitude. And that makes the top 5 reasons to avoid self-employment mentioned in the previous post possibly also be the top 5 reasons to seek self-employment.

A startup doesn’t usually turn a profit for a long time. So? Be prepared for that. It isn’t always a startup; that’s why they are called ‘startups’. Eventually the red numbers turn black.

You work extremely long hours. Most people work long hours when employed by others, too. And when you’re self-employed, you have control of when. You can work any 23 hours a day you CHOOSE to work!

You wear multiple hats at all times. So? Hats are cool!

A book can’t be a business coach. Agreed. If you need a business coach (everyone does), hire one. He/she will help you work ON your business while you work IN your business. You’ll have someone to hold you accountable. But read, too. Books can give you marketing advice, sales techniques, motivation, information and inspiration. Read!

You need the “big guy’s” opinion, then realize you ARE the “big guy”. That’s the toughest of all because the first time this happens, it scares the heck out of you! (Another reason to have a business coach.) Eventually, you’ll be making decisions, the right decisions, because you have learned your business. And you’re happy you made the choice of self-employment because you LIKE being the “big guy”.

Being self-employed is a roller coaster ride, to say the least. As you grow, you’ll know where you want to be and how you’ll get there. Most importantly, you will believe in yourself. The top five reasons to avoid self-employment will go away, or at least become manageable. And even with the ups and downs, the independence and pride of ‘self’ far outweigh the alternative.