If you’re employed, don’t rush to leave your office #job just because a friend or family member painted the “sweet life” of running a business. Business can indeed be rewarding, but it’s not always easy – and it’s certainly not for everyone. In fact, most businesses struggle behind the scenes, and statistics show that about 90% of startups fail within their first two years.
Life on the ground is very different from what textbooks or success stories might make you believe. Owning or running a business may seem glamorous, but the reality hits only when you start. Lately, there’s been a craze for entrepreneurship – everyone wants to run their own enterprise, whether employed or not. Sadly, many end up losing their savings to poor or untested choices. That doesn’t mean you should never try; experimentation is part of life. But caution and preparation are key.
If you are employed, view your job as a valuable #opportunity. Many people thrive in their 9-to-5 careers, building stability and experience. Don’t let others make you feel like you’re in the “wrong career.” Even if you start your own business eventually, you will likely need to employ workers to help run it. Employment is not a stepping stone to failure; it can be a foundation for success.
You can always combine both worlds. It’s possible to maintain your job while starting a side hustle. This approach allows you to test the waters, stabilize your business, and only consider quitting once it becomes sustainable. Don’t make the mistake of leaving a stable income too quickly – that Ksh 80,000 salary you have today may be hard to replace tomorrow.
Remember: jumping on the entrepreneurial craze without planning often leads to regret. Protect your present while building your future.