It’s no secret that most people loathe their jobs.
In fact, studies show that 85% of people are either dissatisfied with their careers or look forward to the end of their day so they can return to enjoying their lives outside of work.
It’s not shocking, really.
Back at my old corporate job, it wasn’t out of the norm to spend 50-60 hours a week working for a very particular boss that sucked every ounce of life from me.
Trust me, when you’re stuck living day by day on autopilot, it’s easy to live for the weekend and dream of a better future to come–hoping that it’s possible to actually get there. There’s a reason these Gen Zers are ditching the status quo and opting for more profitable online business opportunities that help them gain control of their lives before they start.
So if you’re feeling stuck, or to echo Pink Floyd’s words, like “Another Brick in the Wall,” then you’re not alone.
It begs the million-dollar question: Why do we hate our jobs so much?
Better yet, how do we know when it’s the right time (or the right move) to focus on something more rewarding, like starting an online business?
Here are ten telltale signs that you’re foot is already halfway though the entrepreneurship door!
#1: You Hate Going To Work Every Day
Let’s start with the obvious. There are many reasons to dread clocking in for the day, whether that be your arrogant boss, your values not aligning with the company, or simply the boresome monotony of it all. Maybe you love what you do but don’t necessarily get along with your co-workers, or vice versa.
Whatever your situation is, the result is the same–and it can quickly spiral into a vicious cycle of stress and anxiety.
If getting yourself excited about work feels like an impossible task, it could mean that you’re lacking proper fulfillment in your life. On the contrary, starting an online business for yourself can be one of the most freeing feelings to get you back on track and living a life you actually enjoy.
I’m not saying there won’t be hard days, but if you’re constantly pushing yourself to get through the day, and find yourself having the Sunday scaries every single night of the week, then it’s probably time to consider starting on your own path to entrepreneurship.
#2: You Crave Autonomy & Control
Are you getting tired of feeling powerless when it comes to having a voice at work? Do you have a boss who constantly shuts down your ideas or looks over your shoulder to the point of suffocation?
You’re not alone!
It’s frustrating to see the potential in yourself that others simply cannot or refuse to acknowledge. When this happens, it’s far too easy to stunt your growth and develop a festering resentment toward your workplace.
You might even start second-guessing or questioning yourself when you’re constantly being micromanaged or belittled on a daily basis.
It’s for that very reason why so many people dive into creating their own online businesses. It’s the only career choice that allows you to become the captain of your own ship, call your own shots, and trust yourself to make the best decisions for you and your future.
Take that as a sign to pave your own path and leave criticism in the dust.
#3: You’re Sick Of The 9–5 Grind
If you’re feeling stuck going through the daily motions, I hate to say it, but that’s the name of the game when it comes to the 9-to-5.
Remember that episode of Spongebob where Squidward moves to Squideville and is stuck reliving the same day over and over again?
That hits differently as an adult, doesn’t it?
It’s this lack of motivation and passion in your everyday life that can force you to lose your spark, to the point where you don’t even remember the last time you were actually excited about anything.
If you find that your life starts to feel hauntingly similar, then maybe it’s time for a change.
It’s only human nature to desire a better work-life balance–one where you choose your own hours, delegate what’s important, and unshackle the limitations of exploring your true profit potential.
The longer you ignore that desire, the more dreadful your job becomes.
#4: You’ve Hit A Growth Dead-End
Does working toward advancement at your job feel more like hitting a brick wall than an actual task? Frustrating, I know.
It’s no wonder that only 15% of employees in the workforce are actively engaged in their jobs on a daily basis. If you ask me, there’s no question that this lack of opportunity is the culprit for workplace stagnation being at an all-time high.
I mean, who wants to work tirelessly for a job that gives them absolutely nothing in return?
People need stimulation and challenges in order to grow and feel fulfilled in anything. Without these challenges, life can feel demoralizing, and your personal and professional growth takes the hit.
On the other hand, you’re constantly learning and adapting as an entrepreneur. Starting your own business can open the doors to limitless opportunities (and challenges, too).
Whether it’s developing leadership skills or mastering the art of digital marketing strategies, there’s nothing that adds more value to your life and plants endless seeds of growth and opportunity than sweet entrepreneurship.
If you feel stuck and there’s simply no room for growth, it’s only logical to turn to a life of business ownership, which forces you to grow in ways you never thought possible!
#5: Your Health Is Declining
Did you know that getting sick of your job can actually make you sick?
Just like the 83% of the US workforce who suffer from work-related stress, your job could be doing more damage to your physical and mental health than you think. If you’re constantly feeling burnt out, stressed, or find yourself under the weather more often than not, then your body might be trying to tell you something.
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, lethargy, a low immune system, or chronic stress, the symptoms you’re experiencing may be a clear sign that your job is negatively affecting your well-being. There’s no doubt that a stressful job can contribute to a long list of health programs later down the line.
If this sounds familiar, then maybe it’s time to reevaluate your options. No amount of money is worth your health and happiness, if you ask me.
As an entrepreneur, you have the freedom to cultivate a work environment that works for you, not the other way around. The sky is the limit when you’re your own boss––that means taking regular breaks when you see fit, and sticking to a daily routine that promotes a healthy lifestyle.
#6: You’re A Risk-Taker
Ever find yourself daydreaming about new business concepts and turning them into full-fledged projects? That might be a sign it’s time to ditch your 9-to-5 and dive into making your dreams into a reality.
Let’s face it, deciding to start your own online business isn’t for the faint of heart. Here’s the daunting truth: making the leap to murky entrepreneurship waters means recognizing that there’s a chance you might sink or swim.
However, it’s precisely the risks you take in life that propel your success to a new level. So, if taking calculated leaps is something that gets your blood pumping or gears turning, maybe it’s time to use it to your advantage.
Remember, it’s the passion and relentlessness that usually separates the winners from the failures.
If you’re able to capitalize on those traits and use them toward building a successful business–instead of something that pays off for someone else entirely–it could switch the trajectory of your path and ignite your passion for something greater.
#7: You See A Gap In The Market
For many new business owners, market research is the very first stop on their entrepreneurial journey. The ultimate goal is to be able to sift through market trends to target unmet needs in a variety of industries and create solutions to fill those gaps.
Do you already have a sneaking suspicion that you spotted a gap in the market with your business idea? This is a great place to start, and it could be a sign you’re already ahead of the game!
If you think you’re onto something big, you should make that crucial first step toward starting your own business. It’s not every day that these golden opportunities are recognized, and your ability to spot them before anyone else can is a clear-cut sign that the entrepreneurial life is for you!
#8: You’re Already Dabbling & Eager To Learn
Speaking of taking the first steps towards exploring your new business idea, you might have already started testing the waters as a part-time side hustle.
If you’re already starting to see the potential of generating more money and opportunity than you do at your current job, then it might be high time to think about turning your small venture into a full-time gig.
Take your budding hobby as a sign that there’s profit potential and room for growth in the niche. If there’s promise, it would be a smart idea to dedicate yourself fully to growing your business.
If you’re willing and ready to expand your knowledge and grow new skills–challenges and all–you have that certain knack that every successful entrepreneur possesses. It’s not every day that someone thrives on staying ahead of the curve, so might as well put it to good use!
#9: You’re Overworked & Underpaid
Unfortunately, this happens more often than not with most disgruntled employees. If you’re suffering from the feeling of burnout, it’s most likely because you’re putting in way more time and effort than you’ll ever get compensated for.
Let me tell you, employers thrive on this.
What starts as a nagging unappreciation for your work, can quickly evolve into your financial well-being getting the short end of the stick–and yes, while putting your best foot forward is generally a good thing, it should never be for something or someone undeserving of your effort.
This is why your hard work should be put into starting a business that gives you back 100% fruits from your labor. You already have the inner drive, so it’s about time you give back to yourself.
#10: You Want Financial Freedom
Craving your own financial independence? Well, allow me to be the first one to break the news: You’ll never reach that kind of threshold at your current gig.
And even if you do suspect you’ve made it to the other side of financial stability, I’d challenge you to reconsider the precious time you’re sacrificing to get there.
Not so free after all, huh?
However, if you’re like the rest of us, that feeling of being confined to your earning potential can be disheartening, especially if you want to stop trading your time for money.
The kind of freedom, self-sufficiency, and meaningful impact you get from building and owning your own business is one that is distinct and hard to beat. It allows you to become the master of your own fate, create positive change, and to start living life on your own terms.
That’s why this sense of freedom is enough to motivate new entrepreneurs to jump onto the scene every day, striving to finally break free from salary caps and take control of their financial destiny.
How Do You Make The Switch?
Starting your own business can be scary, so here are some initial steps to consider and prepare for when making the official transition from worker bee to certified boss:
Start Small
It can be easy to get overwhelmed by the seemingly endless tasks involved in building and running an online business, like market research and ongoing expenses. That’s why you should focus on starting out slow and steady, putting one foot in front of the other to build a solid foundation.
That said, you shouldn’t feel pressured to quit your job right away if putting all your eggs in one basket isn’t exactly your groove. It’s not uncommon for new entrepreneurs to test the waters and begin their businesses as a side hustle first.
Have A Clear Plan
Creating a solid business plan can set you up for success, both short and long-term. Doing your due diligence by researching and determining your business expenditures can give you a better grasp of potential upfront expenses, profit vs. loss, and overhead costs to be aware of.
Because starting an online business can be fickle depending on your niche, it’s smart to consider setting money aside for emergency funds too. This not only ensures that you’re taking the right precautions, but it will also help you to be financially ready for the transition and any potential problems along the way.
Embrace Change
Don’t get me wrong, quitting your job is easier said than done.
Yes, deciding the take the road less traveled by becoming your own boss is without a doubt rewarding, but it doesn’t come without its own set of challenges and the ability to adapt to uncharted territory.
Still, there’s nothing that compares to the mind-numbing apathy and soul-sucking chokehold that is the 9-5 life.
That’s why it’s important to keep a positive mindset, stand tall when things get tough, and embrace the journey along the way. You’d be surprised at what could be waiting for you on the other side!
Conclusion:
You’ve given your all at work, squeezing every bit of opportunity, and poured your heart into being successful and valuable to your team. Yet, you’re still left feeling jaded and unappreciated in the end.
The truth is, life is too short to stay stuck in a job that drains you. That’s why starting your dream online business can be a total game-changer for both your future and your sanity.
I’m not saying it will be smooth sailing all the way, but choosing to become your own boss and diving into the digital world could be the answer you’ve been desperately looking for.
If you’re ready to break free from the 9-5 grind and achieve financial freedom, my top recommendation is to start your own online business!
You don’t need special skills or a huge following. Just find something you’re passionate about, build an online presence, and use digital tools to reach your audience.
Here’s why starting an online business is worth considering:
- You can work from anywhere with a laptop & internet connection
- You have complete control over your schedule
- You can travel whenever you want
- Spend more time with your family
- Enjoy life while making money
If you’re looking for time and financial freedom, flexibility, and the chance to make a real impact, click here to learn more about the best online businesses to start!