Be the boss: The advantages of running your own business

Stepping out on your own and choosing to become your own boss can be a little unnerving. 

But while it’s natural to worry about falling flat on our faces, the world is changing. More and more folks are realising the advantages of self-employment and taking the plunge.

As a matter of fact, the past 18 months under the shadow of Covid-19 has seen a marked increase in the sheer number of people who’ve walked away from traditional employment to go into business for themselves. Direct selling especially has witnessed a massive surge in new applicants. 

Granted, building a business, especially one you’re personally invested in, isn’t a walk in the park. It takes time, dedication, passion and, very often, the proper training and mentorship to guide neophytes.

Still, numerous business owners and gurus agree that the advantages of self-employment far outstrip the challenges. Here are just some of them:

You call the shots

How many times have you thought that the culture at work needed to change? Or maybe that certain policies were too constricting?

Becoming the boss means you get to personally decide how, when and where work is carried out. So it’s entirely your call if you feel the need for a midday power nap to recharge or to take a well-deserved day off.

True, being a business owner might sometimes translate to working longer hours. But it’s you (and your clients) who’ll dictate the wherefores and whys, not an employer behind an expensive desk.

Decide your financial worth

Being your own boss means being the CEO, COO, marketing officer, clerk, secretary and most importantly, the person in charge of your pocket. 

Financial freedom means different things to different people. And one’s lifestyle often plays a part. Nevertheless, what it all boils down to is that you decide how much you’re worth.

Speaking of worth, it’s been proven that women earn less than men. This imbalance can be redressed as folks start their own businesses and decide their own salaries.

Dictate your pace

The work-from-home routine that’s been part and parcel of the past 18 months was a blessing for many who struggled with work and family commitments.

Unfortunately, it won’t last forever, and already many companies around the world are ushering employees back to strict work regimes. 

Running your own business, thus, affords you all the advantages of working from home. And more.

Interestingly, flexibility is one of the biggest reasons women have ditched their careers for self-employment.

Connect with people and make a difference

While some folks love desk jobs, many others thrive when they’re meeting clients and regular people. Indeed, many young people with the entrepreneur gene are in their element when they’re on the ground seeing to client needs. 

Customers aside, you’re also able to interact with people in need and make a meaningful impact in their lives. It’s been shown that a great many people have successfully chosen self-employment and made a difference to communities in need.

Direct selling, for example, allows business owners to both build relationships with clients and empower other individuals who are looking to step out on their own.

You’ll grow and thrive

Will there be trying and challenging moments in your journey as a business owner? Undoubtedly.

But almost every entrepreneur who’s decided to go into business for themselves confirms that you’ll also grow, personally and professionally.

The hurdles are guaranteed to come, but they will build resilience. You may also find yourself thinking more critically and creatively.

An increase in self-esteem and belief in oneself are also by-products of the entrepreneur life. 

In time, you’ll be able to turn the negatives into positive business lessons. There is no downside to that!