Being an entrepreneur has become a status symbol of sorts–as a sign of success, even though that’s not always the case.
According to social media, entrepreneurship is:
- Financial freedom.
- Flexible work schedules.
- Traveling the world.
- No stress.
- So easy anyone can do it.
The reality is entrepreneurship is the complete opposite, especially in the beginning. Being an entrepreneur is hard work. It’s full of:
- Late nights
- Financial strain
- Stress
- Sacrifice in many areas of life
- At times, self-doubt.
That doesn’t mean the hard work doesn’t lead to some of social media’s depiction of entrepreneurship, but I think it is important for budding entrepreneurs and even those already in the game to realize it’s not all Instagram quotes and guru videos. There are more than enough people showing you the fun side of entrepreneurship, but it’s important that I expose you to some of the struggles.
Since I’m newer to the game, after all I’ve only owned my business for about four years and have really only adopted an entrepreneur’s mindset in the last year or two, I can’t speak from person experience. I can however share a few great articles that I came across this week.
Take a little bit of time to read these articles from Inc.
The Psychological Price Of Entrepreneurship by Jessica Bruder
The Fearsome Nightmare Entrepreneurs Never Talk About by Srikumar Raol
A Navy SEAL Technique Can Help You Survive Entrepreneur Terror by Srikumar Rao
I don’t share these to scare you from pursuing your dreams. Instead, I share these to help set realistic expectations of what might be ahead. I also share to help those entrepreneurs who might be experiencing the issues described in the articles to let them know it’s ok, they are not alone, and it will get better.
I wouldn’t change being an entrepreneur (and being married to one) for anything, and I want everyone wanting to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams to do so and succeed–but success will only come with realistic expectations.
This blog is purely informational and designed to get you to think; in no ways should this information be mistaken for financial advice. Please consult your financial advisor to discuss how this could impact your personal situation.
