7 Lessons I've Learned In 7 Years Of Self-Employment
What a long, strange, unexpected-but-beautiful trip it's been.
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Last week, I hit the milestone: Seven years of self-employment. It’s hard to believe that I’m at this point, a place I never aspired to but can’t imagine not being in. Seven years ago, I was let go (for the second time) from what was my dream job at the time. I was absolutely frightened of what would come next.
If I could tell myself one thing, knowing what I know now, it would’ve been to let go sooner. Let go of what you thought you were “supposed” to do or the track you “should” be on, and instead work hard to figure out what feels right in the situation you’re in at this very moment. Just like Sarah Larson Levey said in episode five of the show, know that this is how it is now. Life was different 5 minutes ago, and it’ll be different 5 minutes from now. So, all you can do is the best you can with what you have in this moment.
To say I’m grateful and feel so blessed to be in this position currently would be such an understatement, finding joy in the work I do regularly — especially these days as Hurdle is on the cusp of a major relaunch (and, it’s SIXTH birthday!). To honor this seven-year milestone, I present you with seven big lessons I’ve learned in this special chapter:
1. You can be firm AND kind.
You rarely know what’s going on in the inner workings of someone’s life that you interact with solely on a professional basis. Although I preach the importance of choosing kindness always, it’s especially relevant within a work capacity. Choosing this approach throughout the past seven years has really cemented some great relationships with contacts that have become my true friends, and it also helps foster a mutual respect. It is possible to be kind in your approach while also vouching for your best interest and standing in your power.
2. Don’t do things because they look cool. Do them because you have a why attached.
Every day, you have the opportunity to open social media and see the highlight reel of someone else going after their big goals. No matter how jazzy someone else’s win may look, remember what’s a priority to you. For instance: Just because another person writes a memoir doesn’t mean you should, too, especially if that’s not something you have a strong connection to. Asking myself “what’s the why here?” has been a guiding compass in many of my business decisions.
3 . You have to be your own biggest hype (wo)man.
If you don’t stand in your confidence and own what you bring to the table, how can you expect others to recognize your potential? Your power starts with you. Own that.
4. Self-employment isn’t for everyone, and that’s OK.
It takes a certain type of person with a certain type of personality and work ethic to embrace (and actually enjoy) being their own boss. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a person who enjoys the structure and security that a 9-to-5 offers. Owning up to what suits you is not only important, but also displays confidence.
4. You are not alone in how you feel. Ask for help.
Sheeeeeeesh. I have tried to do so many things on my own at so many times for so many reasons. I didn’t want to feel like a failure. I wanted to prove to myself I could. I was stubborn. The reality? It is OK to not be OK, and it’s also OK to ask for help! Whether it’s with outsourcing part of a project or even simply hunting for feedback, asking for help can make the whole self-employment thing both feel less lonely and bring a spice of collaboration. Trust me: Once you do, you’ll be doing it regularly.
5. There’s always something to be done, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it.
I was super guilty of the opposite of this for a long, long time. Self-employment means that I am responsible for my livelihood. It also means that there were a number of years I felt guilty just sitting around — even when I needed to really decompress. Just because you have the time to do something, that doesn’t mean you need to be. Be honest with yourself about your priorities, and embrace healthy boundaries between your professional and (well-deserved) personal time.
6. Things show up for you when you’re energetically ready.
There have been so many opportunities over the past seven years that came and went. I thought it was the end of the world when they didn’t work out. But what I know now is that whatever didn’t pan out? Well, it wasn’t supposed to — at that time. I trust that the right things click at the right times, when I’m prepared to take on the challenge (whether or not I feel like I am).
7. Get a good accountant.
On the note of “asking for help,” this is the best $500 I spend every year. Also: An interest-earning savings account. Oh, and having a favorite pen doesn’t hurt either.
So tell me: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in the last handful of years in your professional life?
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: Boost Your Success in 2024: My Best Advice on Business, Time Management, and Reinvention from The Mel Robbins Podcast
Never have I ever taken so many notes while listening to a podcast.
I’m Reading: Remember Love: Words for Tender Times by Cleo Wade
This one really hits the heart right about now. Comment below if you think Cleo should come on the show sometime soon …
Gear I’m Loving: New Balance 1080v13
OK. I’ve been a 1080 fan for years. This sneaker is a regular (understatement) in my rotation for everything from short runs and track workouts to half-marathons and beyond. But this new iteration? It is truly chef’s kiss. The perfect amount of cushion without being heavy, I swear my runs feel easier with these on my feet.
Quote I’m Loving: “Wellness is a business strategy.” — Mel Robbins (I told you, I took a lot of notes.)
Thanks to Future — a new workout experience that pairs you one-on-one with your own fitness coach — for supporting Hurdle.
The amount of messages I’ve received from hurdlers who are feeling lost with their workout routine lately has skyrocketed. I don’t want you to feel lost, but I am happy that I have this offer to give you. Enter Future, a workout app that pairs you with a coach who will map out a plan based on your goals, with workouts delivered to your phone each week.
Future, your Apple Watch (don’t worry, then loan you one for free if you don’t have!), and the app all pair seamlessly so you and your coach can track your progress, celebrate achievements, and keep you accountable every day. I have absolutely loved working with my coach Brandon, and I feel comfortable knowing he’s got my best interest in mind — planning workouts specifically for me (and my body/injury history). He’s so good at following up with me post-sweat, asking how the different movements felt, and communicating to help me get to where I want to be.
Get started right now with 50% off your first month with the special Hurdle offer. Head on over to TryFuture.com/Hurdle to get the deal today!
NEW PODCAST EPISODE🎧: 277. Career Talk: 7 Lessons I've Learned In 7 Years Of Self-Employment
Want more on what I wrote about above? That’s what I’ve got for you this week on the show. In this episode, I expand even more, offering insight into how I got to where I'm at and answering listener questions like:
- What do I do for health insurance?
- How did I know that self-employment was for me?
- How do I create boundaries and work/life balance?
- The helpful tool I use to guide what work I do.
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.