Becoming an entrepreneur after a career setback

When you’ve been dealt a blow, career-wise, it can really mess with your confidence. Yet everybody experiences career setbacks at some point. Now is your chance to go after something you’ve always wanted or to figure out what you want in the first place. Look ahead to the future for all the possibilities it holds.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

If you’ve considered starting your own business, it's time to realize your dreams. Entrepreneurship gives you the opportunity to use your creative problem-solving skills to improve a business that you care about. It gives you the freedom to live outside the 9-to-5 world where you drag through traffic each morning, spend eight hours toiling under fluorescent lights, then sit in traffic again when heading home, only to do it again the next day. As an entrepreneur, you have agency over your career and your financial future – your successes are yours, and no one else can take credit for them.

Business ideas for budding entrepreneurs

Real Estate

If you have a knack for property hunting and possess great negotiation skills, the real estate market is calling for you. You get to live outside the normal day job, and the harder you work, the more money you make. To become an agent, you first need a real estate license. Check your state’s requirements, and start studying to become licensed as soon as possible. Once you’re licensed, join a firm that aligns with your personality and preferences. You’ll be making commissions and building your brand in no time.

Organizing

If you’re a textbook Type A personality who loves to help fix people, why not channel that energy into becoming a professional organizer? Marie Kondo has made a multi-million dollar empire and a Netflix show with her organizing business -- and she lives in Japan! There is nothing but opportunity for you in this field. Of course, just because you have the innate skills doesn’t mean you’re ready to jump in head first. Look into local classes or business programs to learn how to set up your organizing business for success. Being certified by the Board of Certified Professional Organizers (BCPO) is a great place to start.

Pressure Washing

If you love being outdoors and also like watching cleaning videos, pressure washing combines the best of both worlds. If you can invest in the equipment, all it takes is some pavement pounding and marketing to find clients who need help cleaning their driveways, walkways, and other outdoor surfaces. As your clientele grows, invest in more equipment and hire other people who enjoy the work to expand your territory in the pressure washing business.

In conclusion

A career setback may feel disappointing, but look at it as the opportunity it is. It could be your chance to become your own boss as an entrepreneur. There are hundreds of business ideas out there with potential -- find one that fits your interests.

Guest post by Rufus Carter

Thanks, Rufus! Kathy

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