This is my first week as a full-time creative entrepreneur. I was inspired to write this post while all the feelings were fresh. I’m humbled by the early lessons and eager to share some points that might resonate with those who, like me, are venturing into the world of creative dreams.
Perhaps you’re wondering why I decided to step away from a stable day job, one that was working well. It’s true, I had a great time in my corporate role, and I’m deeply grateful for the support it provided. Yet, a yearning for more, both for my family and personal growth, remained within me.
Creating the space to explore these aspirations became crucial.
The pieces began to fall into place, but trust me, it wasn’t without its challenges. Many years of careful consideration paved the way for this transition. My risk aversion made me proceed cautiously, and I’m grateful for the time it took.
Don’t get me wrong, going full-time as an entrepreneur isn’t for everyone. You need to explore if this is for you or not; it’s important to get different perspectives.
One thing I learned is to not force it. I am an avid podcast listener, I’ll be directing you to the wisdom of some important conversations I found very helpful when I was trying to make my decision.
I like these since it’s not all about the sudden leap. Many modern entrepreneurs have found the value of building their businesses as side-hustles at first. I have found success in doing this as well, becoming laser-focused with time and harnessing energy is key.
1. Embrace Your Day Job: Nurturing Your Dream
As I said in the beginning, having the perspective of seeing your day job as a place that funds your dream can help you have a posture of gratitude. It can also give you the opportunity to show your work ethic and apply your new skills.
Though there may be instances that a day job has become toxic, the best advice I’ve found for this is to find a bridge job that can keep you afloat while you build your own thing. Here are some helpful podcasts for both scenarios:
2. Don’t jump…at least not yet
It might be more dramatic, even romantic to barge into the boss’ office and quit on the spot, but this isn’t necessary in most cases. You can be more strategic about your jump, especially if you have more mouths to feed and people relying on you. Preserving relationships and leaving doors open are principles I’ve embraced.
Here are a few podcasts from The Fizzle Show that really helped me appreciate the time constraints and creatively navigate my energy as a business owner.
3. Nurturing an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Confronting Fear and Embracing Change
Venturing into the realm of entrepreneurship naturally entails risks, and facing fear head-on is an essential part of the process. Fear is going to be normal, it’s our brain’s way of protecting us. Don’t just ignore it but understand where it’s coming from.
The confidence will come when you believe what’s possible and have proof that your ideas are viable. Taking action and generating side-hustle income while you’re still employed will give you more courage. Building a runway will build-up your confidence and it will aid in letting go of your corporate identity. Here’s what you can listen to as you enter into this phase:
4. Embrace the Vision: Exploring Possibilities and Nourishing Your “Why”
Knowing your main reason to pursue your dreams will give you motivation when it’s hard to move forward.
My “why” involved being present for our family and developing my personal best.
Listening to what people have been able to create outside of the normal and conventional structure can give you the right inspiration. Here are interviews and solo casts with artists and other business owners that have really inspired me.
So awesome, Lorena! I’m so happy for you! I can’t wait to listen to all these podcasts!! Woot!
Thank you so much, Kate! I’m so glad we were in the same community at one point in my journey, your encouraging words during calls helped with my mindset. Hope everything is well with you.
That really warms my ol’ heart, Lorena! I loved those mindeset sessions so much! ♥
Thanks for this Lorena! 💪🏽💜
Amy Porterfield and Jenna Kutcher are my girls!