Recently, a conversation with a friend took an unexpected turn when he blamed me for not stepping out of my comfort zone and starting my own business earlier. This sentiment echoed the theme in several great audiobooks I’ve been diving into about entrepreneurship, where the criticism often falls on those who don’t abandon their 9-5 jobs to venture into the entrepreneurial world.
Reflecting on my journey, I completely disagree with this perspective. Until recently, I was a nine-to-fiver myself, and looking back, I can see how every step I took brought me to where I am today. My stable day jobs in the software industry allowed me to emigrate four times and truly see the world. This experience not only broadened my horizons but also provided the opportunity to work with diverse teams from around the globe, expanding my network and fostering personal growth. Moreover, it enabled me to obtain a second citizenship, allowing me to travel to most countries without a visa.
This career path helped me build a solid financial foundation for the journey ahead. It gave me the confidence to take bigger steps without the pressure of succeeding the first time. It might sound counterintuitive, but working as an employee for the past 13 years provided me the freedom to start this new chapter in my life.
So, don’t feel intimidated or discouraged! Start small in your free time, dip your toes in the water, and educate yourself as much as you can. It’s never too late. Anything is possible if you’re up for the challenge. Remember, the journey to entrepreneurship doesn’t always have to begin with a leap of faith; sometimes, it starts with steady, calculated steps. Your experiences, skills, and financial stability from a traditional career can serve as a launchpad for your entrepreneurial aspirations.