Have you ever experienced that subtle pull in your stomach, encouraging you to venture into unfamiliar territory?
After a decade working across multiple industries, from tech giants to global entertainment brands, I found myself feeling… stuck. I was still growing and delivering results, but something felt off. The idea of climbing the corporate ladder no longer excited me. I’d sit through hour-long calls wondering how others could feel so passionate about things that, to me, seemed mundane and meaningless. I couldn’t find any real passion for the projects I was involved in, nor did I feel that spark of excitement in the morning to log in and get started. It was time for a change.
Making the Jump
I will be honest: deciding to step away from a stable career to dive into the deep end of entrepreneurship wasn’t a decision I made lightly. I spent months thinking about it, talking to friends and “strangers” on LinkedIn, and weighing the pros and cons.
But after a few months of moonlighting, I came to the conclusion that there would never be a “perfect” time. You’ll never have everything lined up just right. At some point, you have to make the jump and trust yourself to figure it out along the way.
Freelancing: The Secret Transition Phase
While working full-time, I started freelancing on the side. I wanted to see if I was any good at working for myself, if I could actually land clients, and most importantly, if I liked it.
Freelancing became my testing ground. It was a space where I could make mistakes, learn new skills, and build up the courage to eventually leave my corporate role. It definitely also taught me how to manage my time better, handle client expectations, and navigate the many unknowns that come with running your own show.
If you’re thinking about giving freelancing a try, here are some platforms that helped me (and could help you too!):
• Upwork: A great place to start if you’re looking to build your portfolio and gain experience. I found my first gigs here by creating a strong profile, applying to relevant jobs, and being persistent. It might take a bit to get noticed, but once you do, the opportunities can really start to flow. This is one I still leverage from time to time.
• LinkedIn Jobs: Don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn. With the right filters and a proactive approach (i.e., not shying away from reaching out directly to potential clients) you can uncover some great freelance opportunities. Plus, it’s a fantastic platform to showcase your skills and build a network.
• Fiverr: Though I didn’t dive deeply into Fiverr, I know plenty of freelancers who swear by it for getting quick gigs. It’s especially good for niche services and creative work.
Each of these platforms offers a unique way to connect with clients, build your reputation, and figure out what type of work you enjoy most.
The Unexpected Upsides and the Real Challenges
I will stay honest here too: dealing with the uncertainty can be tough at times. There are days when I still question everything. But, I also very quickly learned to love the freedom, the flexibility, and the fact that I’m building something that is truly mine. I’ve met incredible people, learned from my beginner mistakes, and grown more than I ever thought possible.
And I will add something else here, it is fun. There’s something exciting about waking up and not quite knowing what the day will bring. Every new project, client, or idea is an adventure. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
For Those of You Considering the Leap…
If you’re in that space right now – thinking about taking the leap, but unsure of where it might land you – I’m here to tell you, you’re not alone. The world is increasingly turning toward entrepreneurship, and there are some compelling statistics to back this up.
For example, 58% of entrepreneurs today are ex-corporate employees who, like me and many others, were seeking something beyond the 9–5 grind. More than 70% of new entrepreneurs started their businesses because they wanted a career or lifestyle change or to be their own boss, showing that many are motivated by the desire for independence and fulfillment .
Entrepreneurship is on the rise globally, with over 600 million entrepreneurs worldwide as of 2024, up from 582 million in 2020. This means more than 8% of the world’s population is now engaged in entrepreneurial activities . Additionally, a significant portion of adults globally – over 50% – express interest in starting their own business to generate income, particularly as traditional job opportunities remain scarce .
Despite the challenges, many entrepreneurs are optimistic about their prospects. Around 77% expect their businesses to survive in today’s economy, and 65% expect their revenues to increase in the coming year, indicating a strong belief in their ability to adapt and thrive .
These numbers show a clear trend: more and more people are taking the plunge into entrepreneurship, driven by the desire for autonomy, purpose, and new opportunities. While the journey isn’t without its hurdles, the potential rewards and growing global interest suggest it’s an adventure worth considering.
So, if you’re standing at the edge, wondering whether to jump, know that many have been there before – and many more will be right beside you on this exciting path.
Here’s my advice: Start small. Test the waters. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Talk to people who’ve done it before you. Read, listen, learn. And when you’re ready, take the leap.
And if you’ve already taken that leap – tell me about it! I’d love to hear your stories, lessons learned, and any advice you might have for those still standing on the edge.
