How did you know when it was time to leave your 9 to 5 to focus on your business full-time?

I hear this question very often. It’s amazing to me to hear entrepreneurs tell prospective entrepreneurs not to leave their job. Maybe I’m too new in the game to understand. However, I don’t think there is a one size fits all response. The decision to leave your 9 to 5 is very personal and each person’s journey will be different. To date, I’ve only heard one entrepreneur say trust your instincts. This lady was one of five panelists at an event I attended.  The other four warned against it but she smiled and shrugged then shared her story.  She worked in corporate for nine months then one day fate stepped in and she never looked back.

I understand why entrepreneurs warn against it. Starting a business requires money and often times the first five years may require out-of-pocket funding. In addition to funding your business,  you have to be able to maintain your lifestyle and keep a roof over your head. It might be a little hard to concentrate and allow your creativity to flow if you don’t know when your next check will come. Your other option is to trust completely and tap into your spirituality which is a feat in itself.

Trusting requires courage, knowledge, and patience. It is no cake walk. There are days when my inner critic steps forward and I have to regroup physically, mentally and spiritually. I’m getting pretty good at confronting my inner critic but it too is a learning process. Every time I hear her, I entrench myself in positive affirmations to that all is possible through prayer and meditation. I’ve pulled out all the tools that got me here. The road is not always easy but it is my job to feed my mind and surround my life with the things that empower me. I attend a lot of empowerment events and each time I gain more inspiration which drives me to stay the course. Some days you can’t see the light st the end of the tunnel or hear your higher guidance. Those are the days you have to seek what you need and remind yourself why you chose this path. No one can really tell you when is the perfect time especially without knowing your journey. Some entrepreneurs will make your question about them.  It might have taken them years to take that step or get their business off the ground but only you and the power you believe in can guide you on what’s best for you.

This is a two-part series so stay tuned for my follow-up a list of 9 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your 9 to 5.

Peace and Blessings