Busting the myths: The unfiltered truth about being your own boss

There are many reasons why someone would want to start their own business. Well, according to Guidant Financial, about 29% of entrepreneurs said it was because they wanted to be their own boss. 

I bet that’s what motivated you too when you started your own agency!

No turning back

When things get tough, it’s important to remind yourself why you started in the first place. Reflecting on your reasons helps you find the strength to overcome setbacks and challenges.

And hey, I know it can feel lonely at the top. You’re left to solve problems on your own because asking for help from your subordinates might seem like a sign of weakness. Or worse, you might actually be alone on this journey.

Being your own boss has its ups and downs, and in this article, we’ll explore how to tackle the downsides of being self-employed. So, let’s dive in!

5 Cons of being your own boss + solutions!

Here are the top 5 challenges you might face when you’re your own boss, and some handy tips to tackle them.

Problem: Wild income rollercoaster

When you’re flying solo, your income can feel like a rollercoaster ride. No steady pay check means your cash flow can swing wildly based on how your business is doing, the economy, or client demand. A smart money plan is your best friend here.

Solution: Recurring revenue

“Recurring revenue” is the buzzword here: it’s cash that comes in regularly from stuff like subscriptions, service contracts, memberships, and the like. By setting up these models, you can count on a more reliable income stream.

We’ve got a full guide on how to adapt this to your business: check it out!

Problem: Increased responsibility

When you’re the boss, you’re responsible for everything in your business, from operations and marketing to finances and customer service.

This increased workload can be challenging and stressful especially if you’re use to completing tasks on your own.

Solution: Delegation

Delegation is the key here. By assigning tasks and responsibilities to capable team members, you can focus on what you do best. This way, you’ll have more time and energy for high-value activities like business development and strategic planning.

Problem: Limited benefits and security

Unlike traditional employment, being self-employed often means you don’t have access to employee benefits like health insurance or retirement plans. 

Job security becomes your responsibility, and managing these benefits can be complex and costly.

Solution: Diversification

To mitigate these challenges, try diversifying your client base. Relying on a single client can be risky, so aim to have multiples to reduce the impact if you lose one.

Networking, building a strong reputation, and seeking health and business insurance companies that cater to SMBs are essential for creating stability.

Problem: Lack of structure and support

Working independently can be liberating, but it can also mean a lack of structure and support. Without a team or colleagues, you may feel isolated, and the absence of structured guidance can be overwhelming.

Solution: Find a support network

Look for industry-specific communities, forums, or social media groups where you can connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and seek advice.

Attend networking events and consider finding a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your startup.

Partnering with an on-demand design company with a well established structure also helps because you don’t have to create the processes from ground up and the designers are already professionally trained.

One less thing to worry about!

Problem: Work-Life balance challenges

While being your own boss offers flexibility, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be challenging. It’s easy to end up working long hours, including evenings and weekends, to ensure business success.

Solution: Self-care

Remember to take breaks and practice self-care, my friend. Overworking can lead to burnout, so schedule regular breaks, engage in hobbies, exercise, and spend time with loved ones. Taking care of yourself is essential for long-term success.

Entrepreneurship is not black or white

Entrepreneurship is a tough road, my friend, and not everyone succeeds. But those who do create something amazing are happier, more confident, and free.

Being your own boss can be incredibly rewarding, but it does come with its fair share of challenges.

Take a look at the pros and cons we discussed here, think about your own goals and circumstances, and make an informed decision.

Remember, every journey is unique, and finding the right path for yourself is key to a successful and satisfying entrepreneurial venture. You’ve got this!