Waged no more: Setting sail on the self-employed journey

Are you setting off?

There will be both challenges and opportunities ahead - you don’t need to travel alone.

The last paycheck as someone else’s employee is a big landmark for any new business owner. Making that choice to steer your own destiny and become the captain of your ship is a big decision.

For me, the reality of pulling up the gangplank and setting sail on my journey into self-employment was both exhilarating and terrifying. Lots of sleepless nights - my head buzzing with a mix of exciting new ideas and occasional self-doubt. I now had the freedom to act as I chose but ultimately still needing to pay the bills. The safety net had been removed and I needed to perform and deliver consistently. I had to focus and make wise decisions if the new venture was to work.

When you are “it”, head honcho and chief bottle washer, the pressure and uncertainty can be overwhelming at times. It can also be very lonely. But as the expression goes “it is always darkest before the dawn”. If you do your homework and adequately plan your business venture, you’ll already be well on the way to a much brighter future.

Be kind to yourself. Some mistakes or poor decisions are inevitable – just learn from them. You will need to work hard but do so smartly – quality not just quantity. Cherish downtime and occasional timeout of the business to come back refreshed ready for the next challenge, as you can’t keep going without any fuel in the tank.

Take time to celebrate all the amazing things you achieve along the way:

·        The first invoice you raise – Well done, you’re underway;

·        The first glowing customer reference – Well done, you did a good job;

·        The first time you paid tax – Well done, you made a profit;

·        The first time you had to prepare a GST Return – Well done, you made more than $60,000 sales;

·        The first time you get sent someone’s CV – Well done, you are a recognized employer of choice;

·        The first time another business owner asks you for advice – Well done, you are respected peer in the business community.

Remember, you don’t need to take the journey alone. A Business Coach is a wise investment to help guide and encourage you. It can be a huge comfort to get a second opinion from someone that understands your situation well. A wise counsel and critical friend can help you reach your goals quicker …hopefully with fewer grey hairs and bags under your eyes.

Get in touch if you’d like a navigator for your voyage.

NCBIZ provides specialist support and coaching to help start-ups and businesses across Christchurch and Canterbury establish a solid foundation, overcome challenges and perform at their best.