Embracing the Solopreneur Lifestyle: A Journey of Growth
Written on
Chapter 1: The Beginning of My Solopreneur Adventure
Reflecting on my three-and-a-half-year journey as a solopreneur, I can confidently say that I am thoroughly enjoying the experience.
When I initially contemplated launching a nonprofit fundraising consultancy, I never anticipated the level of enjoyment and fulfillment I would find. I had envisioned a career working for a nonprofit until retirement. However, as I began to realize during my last role in a nonprofit that my future was not bound to that job, the idea of Altrui began to take shape.
A few months later, the moment arrived for me to move on, and I submitted my resignation. Thankfully, I had already started laying the groundwork for Altrui. I had four weeks before my position officially ended, during which I made significant strides:
- Secured the domain name for Altrui.
- Engaged a web designer to create the site.
- Obtained the necessary licenses to establish my business as a sole proprietorship.
- Continued to enhance my social media presence.
- Informed my close connections about my new venture.
- Sought assistance and mentorship from others.
Now, as I look back on those initial weeks, I am filled with gratitude for how far I’ve come. The learning has been profound and continuous.
One key lesson I've embraced is the importance of never becoming complacent. This means dedicating myself daily to ensuring my clients are thrilled, exceeding their expectations, and striving to grow Altrui.
I’ve also discovered the power of focused work, often referred to as "deep work." I allocate four hours each day, four days a week, strictly for client-related tasks—no emails, social media, or even distractions from my adorable dogs. This allows me to deliver exceptional results for my clients.
Believing in myself and my abilities has been transformative, as has my commitment to working diligently on behalf of my clients, which has reached new heights since founding Altrui. I've learned that my clients place their trust in me to solve their challenges.
Additionally, I've developed the skill of disconnecting from work, realizing that Fridays and Mondays hold equal value. The joy of owning a business that I love has profoundly impacted my perspective on work.
Self-care has become a priority in my life, encompassing quality time with my husband, workouts at the gym, long walks, reading, and nurturing relationships with important people. I strive to incorporate these activities into my daily routine.
Thinking about becoming a solopreneur? I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap! Embrace risks, offer your services, support your friends and colleagues, and practice kindness.
This first video, "I had 7 team members and now I'm a solopreneur: here's why," delves into the transition from teamwork to solo entrepreneurship, exploring the motivations behind this significant change.