Career change?

Question

I am a professional working in IT. My salary is over 100K/ year. I am so miserable with working in corporate america. I am thinking of starting a small business (construction/cleaning) and trying to grow that into something large. Would you take the security of a corporate job (which isn't really secure any more) or decide to go it on your own. What are the pros and cons of such a venture at 38 years old?

Answer 1

you sound like myself. I'm still in corporate america trying to find that small business that I start part-time (while still working) and grow it into something so that I can quit my job. if you find anything I'd like to know and will be watching your question!

I just wanted you to know you're not alone.....

Answer 2

The big con to striking out on your own is the lack of security. If you have a lot of money in savings and can afford to lose it all, go right ahead, but if you don't have a big bankroll, don't even try. Over 50% of new businesses fail in their first year and those that don't are often sucking their owner's bank account dry till they can become profitable. Franchising isn't much better. Your current salary might actually make things worse for you--- going from 100k to 0k overnight is a serious lifestyle change and can really take a long time to get used to.

Being your own boss might be great but at 38 years old, you might not be in a position to blow all of your finances. Especially if you have kids or other people counting on you for income!

My personal recommendation, as a fellow IT professional: look for another position with a company whose corporate culture is more in line with your needs. Not all corporate jobs are "corporate culture." When you find a good fit, stay as long as you can. In the mean time, bankroll as much as you can so you can still consider launching your own business, but wait for a time when you can afford to lose the start-up costs.

Answer 3

I can tell you that I don't particularly like my job either, but it's been a heck of a lot better since I now have HOPE. I got hope when someone proposed a terrific business opportunity that I'm now working at and soon I'll be able to "retire" from this "job" and work my own business full time. The beauty of it is that I'm growing my business in my spare time and sooner than later it will become more profitable than my "job," at which time I'll be able to quit. But, until then I'm secure financially without taking the HUGE RISK of quitting my secure job and trying to start a business.

This is an Internet marketing opportunity where you're paid for shopping and paid for referring others to shop also. . .it's so simple. My retirement is coming sooner than you'd think. If this stirs any curiosity, contact me at [e-mail]

Answer 4

A job you enjoy is far more valuable than a high-paying job that you hate.

I would suggest working a couple more years to work up a safety net of money, then resigning and following your dream. I'm sure that at the end of your life, you'll be more thankful for having lived it happily than having a few material posessions. You won't be wondering if things could be different if only you had gotten up the guts to change. Even if you fail, you will still be able to say you tried with all your heart.

There are many valuable things money cannot buy.

Answer 5

If I were in your shoes, I would try to start my company before leaving my job.

The type business you are thinking about sounds like the type you could work part-time, until you see if the market is as ready for you, as you are for it.

Good luck

Answer 6

Hi, if you want to work for yourself, I am currently in a home-based business that is awesome and easy so if you want some information please email me at [e-mail]. Thank you.