Leaving Your 9-5 Job: 3 Steps for a Stress-Free Business Launch

January 31st, 2017 Tags: Dexter Montgomery, Pamela Montgomery
Posted in Leaving Your 9-5 Job

Leaving Your 9-5 Job

Leaving Your 9-5 Job: 3 Steps for a Stress-Free Business Launch

Leaving your 9-5 job can be exciting. But sometimes it can be stressful. We understand your desire to work from home. We understand that you want freedom from your awful boss, nasty coworkers, and the limitations of a fixed salary. You are ready for the independence that comes from doing your own thing!

But if you are trading all that in for a different kind of stress, what have you really gained? Before you kiss your cubicle goodbye, be sure you first build a solid foundation. Before leaving your 9-5 job follow these 3 steps for a stress-free business launch:

·      Building a financial safety net

·      Gaining support from your family

·      Understanding the importance of taking time for YOU

Building a Financial Safety Net

Nothing causes stress us quite like worrying about money. Leaving your 9-5 job can be an opportunity for stress. Whether you are concerned about those college tuition bills you will be facing in a few years, or worse, not sure how you are going to make the mortgage payment, it is easy to lose your business mojo. As a new business owner, you certainly do not want money trouble casting a shadow over your entrepreneurial dream.

Before you turn in your resignation, set aside some cash in case of a rainy day. Aim for at least three months of living expenses, but more is better. Hopefully you will not need it. But having some cash on hand will relieve the pressure of having a new business that is not earning its keep—yet. It may take several months before you come close to replacing your salary. Having a financial safety net will make it easier for you to stay on track with your new business.

Receiving Support from Your Family

Money troubles are bad, but there may be one thing that is worse: an unsupportive (or downright hostile) spouse. And as any entrepreneur will tell you, not everyone understands the drive to be a business owner. In fact, most people find it scary to step away from that regular paycheck to chase after a dream.

If that sounds like your husband (or wife) do not take it personally. They are not making a statement about your ability. More than likely, they are just worried about what the future holds. Do your best to understand there point of view. Be sure to clearly explain your ideas, why you are confident it will work, and how you plan to cover the start- up expenses and manage the risk.

If he or she is still not on board, consider starting slow, with a part-time business while still working your day job. That will give you the opportunity to prove your idea is workable, and might just help your spouse get as excited about it as you are.

Dexter and I started our business while we were both working. I retired from my job to become a full-time entrepreneur. Because we own the business together, we support each other’s entrepreneurial dream.

Understanding the Importance of Taking “Me” Time

Understanding the importance of taking time for yourself is a key part of your solid foundation.  No matter what is going on with your money, your spouse or your business, you need to be sure to schedule some “me” time. No one can work all the time, regardless of how driven you are. You especially need to remember that no one can stay healthy while maintaining a nonstop schedule. Go for a walk, hit the gym, get a pedicure, or just binge on your favorite television show. The point is simply to take time away from your desk to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Without it, you will soon find yourself overwhelmed and stressed, even if you truly love your new business.

Conclusion/Call to Action

Leaving your 9-5 job to start a business can be stressful. But with a solid foundation you can have a stress-free launch. This article outlines 3 steps for a successful, stress-free business launch. They are:

1.   Building a Financial Safety Net

2.   Gaining Support from Your Family

3.   Understanding the Importance of Taking “Me” Time

My following these 3 steps you are well on the way to launching a stress-free business.

Leave us a comment on our website to let us know if you are finally ready for leaving your 9-5 job.

Also published on Medium.