photo: natalieoffduty
Starting a business while having a full-time job is probably the most challenging thing I have ever done. One and a half years ago, I had no idea what kind of journey it would be for us here at CGD, but now, looking back, it is definitely one of the most rewarding things I’ve done so far. Slowly letting go of my full-time job because our start-up is doing well is such an amazing feeling and worth every single busy second of my life.
Considering doing the same? Here are some pointers that will definitely help you when you want to start a business while holding on to your full-time job.
Suck it up
Probably the best advice that I can give you. Yes, it is going to be hard and you will ask yourself why you started all this, but you need to suck it up and keep going. There is no way to sugarcoat this and the worst thing you can do is feel sorry for yourself and whine (believe me I have been there!) because that will influence your performance and make you focus on the wrong things. I am lucky that I didn’t start it alone and can share the workload. Focus on the why and look forward to the day that you can quit your full-time job and that the company you started becomes your only one.
Balance is key
Balance your days! Plan in a daily gym session or an hour to watch your favorite tv show between your two jobs. We need breaks during our day to keep our brains going, so allow yourself to balance your days with some other activities that keep your mind off work for a bit.
Be open to your friends and family
Let them know why you are so busy. My friends and family know that I am really busy with my jobs and don’t take offense if I don’t speak with them for a while because they know I am working 90% of my time. If you don’t keep them in the loop about everything that is happening around you, they might take it personally that you spend less time with time with them or don’t talk with them as often as you would like too. People are very understanding as long as they know what is going on.
Keep your eye on the prize
That should be your biggest motivation! Remind yourself every single day why you started your business even though you are still working full-time. Maybe you can quit your job after 1 year, maybe after 3 years or maybe you need to go part-time first before you can fully stop. It doesn’t really matter how long it takes, keep your eyes on the prize and you will definitely get there.
Plan a weekly sabbatical
You need a day of rest, where everything work related is absolutely forbidden. It is your me-time, or your family and friends time, that allows you to reload and get ready for a new, busy week ahead. Taking a day off is also important just to clear your mind, de-stress and catch up with the world around you.
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