Why I Never Took a 9-to-5 Job: Building a Life Around Side Hustles and Entrepreneurship
The only “job” I ever had was a part-time role working for my dad between the ages of 14 and 17. Even though it was a great learning experience, it made me realize early on that the typical work routine wasn’t for me. I knew I wanted to build my own businesses and concepts instead of following a 9-to-5 path.
It all started with small ventures—buying and reselling products on platforms similar to Craigslist. When I turned 18, I launched a web agency focused on Magento development. This gave me the chance to work with different companies, which inspired me to dive into e-commerce and launch my own stores. Over the years, I’ve sold longboards, self-tanning products, and even sex toys. Each business came with its ups and downs, but I loved the freedom and creativity it gave me to make my own path.
Why I Chose Entrepreneurship Over a Traditional Job
- The Freedom to Travel and Be With Family
I’ve always valued experiences over routines. I love traveling—whether it’s spending time with my girlfriend in Mexico City or driving across Europe. With entrepreneurship, I can do what I love without asking for vacation days. I can run my businesses remotely and shape my days around what matters most to me. - It’s About Results, Not Hours Worked
Success, for me, isn’t about putting in eight hours a day. Some days, I might work four highly productive hours; other times, I’ll spend days exploring new ideas. I love the flexibility of not being tied to an office or a schedule, which allows me to stay creative and motivated. - The Thrill of Building New Things
The challenge of entrepreneurship is what keeps me going. Whether it’s launching a webshop or developing my new startup, I thrive on solving problems and testing new ideas. Building something from scratch is never easy, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.
Opportunities in 2024: AI and a Global Marketplace
In 2024, the landscape for entrepreneurship is better than ever. It’s not just the internet that offers opportunities—it’s the rise of AI and automation. Today, you can automate large parts of your business, from customer service chatbots to bookkeeping tools. AI makes it easier to scale businesses with fewer resources, which gives entrepreneurs a huge edge.
We’re also living in a global marketplace. You no longer have to sell within your city or even your country—you can build an audience and market your products anywhere in the world. Whether it’s hiring overseas talent at competitive rates or using tools like Doola to handle compliance, the possibilities are endless.
Why There’s Never Been a Better Time to Go Solo
With the right mindset and tools, there are so many ways to build an income outside of a traditional job. Whether it’s running an affiliate site, building a blog, launching an e-commerce store, or consulting, you can create multiple income streams. And the best part? You get to control your time.
The old idea of waiting until retirement to enjoy life is outdated. With entrepreneurship, you can design a lifestyle that allows you to travel, spend time with family, and work on projects you’re passionate about—all while building your future.
It Takes Time, But It’s Worth It
Starting your own business isn’t easy. There will be moments of doubt, and progress can feel slow. It often takes 1-2 years of hard work before you see real success. But if you stay committed, the rewards will come—and they’ll be worth it.
The Power of Community and Networking
In entrepreneurship, surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference. Engaging with communities—both online and offline—allows you to share ideas, gain feedback, and learn from others’ experiences. Networking can lead to partnerships and collaborations that you may never have considered.
Finding mentors who have walked the path you’re on can be invaluable. They can offer insights, support, and guidance that help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Whether it’s local meetups, online forums, or social media groups, don’t underestimate the power of building relationships in your journey.
Final Thoughts: Is Entrepreneurship Right for You?
If a 9-to-5 job doesn’t feel right for you, entrepreneurship could be your answer. With today’s tools and global opportunities, it’s easier than ever to build something meaningful on your own terms. Yes, there will be challenges, and you’ll need patience, but the freedom to design your life is worth the effort.
If you’re ready to take the leap, start small, experiment, and learn along the way. The opportunities are endless—and you don’t have to wait until later to enjoy life. You can build the life you want right now.
