Entrepreneurship is much easier and more fun now that I have a 9-5 job

Entrepreneurship has become significantly easier and more enjoyable ever since I started a 9-5 job. For the past decade, I’ve been fully dedicated to running my own businesses.

Currently, my business is generating approximately $650-700k in revenue for the previous year, with expectations to reach around $700-800k this year (emphasizing ‘revenue’).

In terms of profit, I typically take home $5-10k monthly for my wife and me from the business. However, as we expand, our construction costs have skyrocketed—often exceeding $10k a month. To manage this, I accepted a full-time, in-person position because keeping up with construction and handling high-risk loans became challenging. Now, my wife oversees the business.

Several changes have positively impacted my life:

1) Structured Schedule: Having a 9-5 job has imposed a healthier sleep and wake routine. I’ve learned that morning hours are incredibly productive since I’m less likely to be interrupted. I’m now up between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m., dedicating an hour to my business before transitioning to work, allowing me to maintain progress.

2) Increased Delegation: With my 9-5 schedule, I’ve been compelled to delegate more. I share daily plans with my staff at around 6 a.m., creating a productive routine. While there are still emergencies, I’ve learned to trust my team to address issues without me being physically present, as long as I communicate effectively.

3) Reduced Stress: One of the most significant benefits is the decreased stress regarding my business. Not relying solely on it for my income has given me the freedom to approach it with a relaxed mindset.

4) Expanded Financial Flexibility: My wife and I now have double the income, which allows us to take more risks with the business and enjoy life more fully. This financial boost has created opportunities for faster growth in the business and increased personal enjoyment.

5) More Travel Opportunities: With less stress and greater disposable income, I find myself traveling more often. As a dedicated entrepreneur, I often felt strapped for time and resources, which prevented me from exploring new places—but now, that has changed.

6) Skill Acquisition: I’m acquiring valuable skills from my 9-5 that I previously wouldn’t have gained as an entrepreneur. My proficiency in data analytics and reporting has improved dramatically, which I am now applying to my business.

7) Intentional Weekends: Weekends have transformed into focused periods for catching up on business tasks and personal activities. There’s still ample time to be productive since my team is operating smoothly, along with increased financial resources to propel projects forward.

Downsides: The primary drawback is the feeling of being time-starved, leaving less opportunity for daily relaxation. Some evenings I miss the extra time to unwind, and there are mornings when getting up early feels tough. Nonetheless, the benefits to my business and personal life outweigh any inconveniences.