In the school holidays, I’m struck by how much more manageable the holidays are now that I run my own business. Over four years of being my own boss, following my previous career as an employee, and I can confidently say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Of course, there are challenges, but the benefits outweigh them. Here are my main pros and cons:
Pros:
1. Flexibility:
This has been a game-changer for me, especially with two school-aged children. I can attend sports days, assemblies, and plays without worry. While my work sometimes involves travel and event attendance, I can schedule it around my family, giving me the freedom I never had in a traditional job.
2. The Challenge:
For some, facing constant challenges may be daunting, but I thrive on it. Building a business from scratch means I’m constantly tackling new problems, which pushes me to be more creative. The process of solving issues and taking risks keeps me engaged and excited about my work.
3. Endless Possibilities:
One of the most exciting things about running my business is the sheer range of opportunities. Sport Sister already looks different from what I imagined when I started, and I love that it can evolve organically. The freedom to experiment and explore new projects gives me a sense of adventure that wasn’t possible in my previous roles. If we want to learn more about how Sport Sister is evolving then have a read of this post on the subject.
Cons:
1. Uncertainty:
While I’ve been fortunate to generate a full-time income from the start, there’s no guarantee that this will always be the case. The steady paycheck of a salaried job offers security, and it can be nerve-wracking not knowing what the future holds. Plus, chasing late payments from clients can add unnecessary stress.
2. Difficulty Switching Off:
I’ve worked hard to set boundaries around my work hours, but the reality is that it’s hard to switch off completely. Even when I’m not officially working, my brain is often running in the background, mulling over new ideas or challenges. True downtime can feel elusive when you’re passionate about what you’re building.
3. Self-Doubt:
Without a boss or coworkers to provide feedback, it’s easy to question your decisions. While client testimonials can be uplifting, I sometimes miss the reassurance that comes from a supportive team. That’s why I’ve surrounded myself with trusted individuals, both personally and professionally, to help me stay grounded when doubt creeps in.
In conclusion, while running a business has its ups and downs, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s an exciting, unpredictable journey, and now, I’m ready to enjoy some family adventures before getting back to it. If you want some more tips on juggling running a business with the school holidays then I have a blog post dedicated to this too.
