Ever wondered what it would be like to work for yourself? Perhaps you’ve toyed with the idea but not felt quite ready to take this step. It’s natural to be nervous about striking out and starting your own company, and this isn’t something you should rush into without some careful thought.
On the other hand, it’s important not to let fear prevent you from making what could be a shrewd career move. If you’re looking for some encouragement to take this path, here are three sure signs you’d suit being your own boss.
1. You think the rules are there to be broken
Do you have a natural tendency to challenge the status quo? As renowned entrepreneur Chris Niarchos noted in a recent blog post, businesspeople tend to challenge rules and accepted ways of doing things. He went on to point out that this can help them to devise new and better ways of doing things and it can allow them to see opportunities where other people only see problems.
It stands to reason that if you have a predisposition to question orthodoxies, you’ll probably feel more at ease in control of your own organisation than you do when you’re trying to fit into someone else’s.
Nonconformists make things happen. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.”
2. You can’t stand the thought of a typical 9-5
Lots of people like the security and routine that comes with a 9-5 job, but if this seems too humdrum for you, being self-employed could be the perfect alternative. If a “workday” is just not your thing, you would be better off exploring meaningful work or pursuing your passion project.
Entrepreneurs work at odd hours though. Sometimes working from 7am-11pm…six to seven days a week. However, many entrepreneurs love what they do, rather than feel obligated to do it.
When you work for yourself, you get to set your own schedule, meaning you have much greater flexibility. Of course, you’ll need to work hard to make a success of your venture, but ultimately you’ll determine the hours you put in.
Your work will be more varied too. In fact, you’ll probably find that no two days are the same when you’re in charge of a company.
3. You’re a perfectionist
Do you like to feel in control of your tasks at work? Are you the kind of person who obsesses over even small details and who always wants to get the best possible results?
Being a perfectionist like this can stand you in good stead when it comes to being a successful entrepreneur. It means you won’t let standards slip in your company and you’ll always be motivated to strive for the top.
But done is always better than perfect when you are your own boss. Progress trumps over-analysing. Don’t let your perfectionism prevent you from starting or completing a project.
As well as these characteristics, a range of other traits can help you excel as your own boss. From strong organisational abilities to a willingness to take on responsibility, a variety of qualities can help you to succeed in business.