Small Business Enterprise Centre
  • Home
  • Programs
    • Starter Company Plus
    • Summer Company
  • Events
    • Bridges
  • Resources
    • Tools
  • Contact
  • Articles

The Myth of Freedom: What Year One in Business Really Feels Like

7/1/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
You’ve taken the leap. You’re finally working for yourself.
No more boss. No more rigid 9 to 5. Just you, your ideas, and the freedom to build something meaningful.

Just you and the vision of independence that Insta - Entrepreneurs are selling.

But here’s the truth that catches most new entrepreneurs off guard:
You don’t just become your own boss—you become everyone’s boss.

And you wear every hat.
​
Suddenly, you’re not only the one doing the work you love. You’re also:
  • Handling customer inquiries at 10 p.m. (Because you still need to learn how to set the balance of boundaries and providing high quality customer experience).
  • Posting to Instagram while making dinner. (Because when else do you have time?)
  • Trying to learn bookkeeping from a YouTube video. (Because if you don't understand your cashflow, you don't understand your business).
  • Wondering if you can really afford to take Sunday off. (Because when else can you catch up?)

So… Where’s the Freedom?


Freedom does come. But in the early days, it looks less like extra time off and more like the ability to choose your hard.

It means building discipline, setting boundaries, and learning how to work on your business—not just in it.
Year one is often the steepest climb. But you’re not climbing alone.

A Few Ways to Stay Grounded in the First Year:

1. Build structure into your flexibility

One of the biggest surprises? Having all the time in the world—and no idea how to manage it.
Try this:
  • Set “open” and “closed” hours for yourself. Yes, even if you work from home.
  • Time-block your week. Give admin, marketing, and product work dedicated space.
  • Schedule breaks. Actually walk away. Your brain will thank you.

2. Outsource the stuff you hate—when you can

You won’t be able to outsource everything right away.
But consider:
  • Using a free or low-cost invoicing tool instead of DIY spreadsheets.
  • Hiring a bookkeeper, even quarterly, so tax season doesn’t destroy you.
  • Asking for help instead of spinning your wheels.
You don’t need to do it all alone to prove you’re committed.

3. Talk to people who’ve been there

Entrepreneurship can feel isolating, especially if your friends and family have never run a business. Connect with others who get it.
  • Join a local business group. Can't find the right one to meet your needs? Ask a local business person you respect out for coffee.
  • Attend free workshops.
  • Ask questions—chances are, someone else is wondering the same thing. 
    Connect with a Small Business Advisor. (Did you know that most of our team members have spent time operating their own businesses? We've been where you are!).
There’s strength in community. Let yourself lean on it.

4. Redefine success early and often

Some days, success will look like making a big sale.
Other days, it’s just answering that one email you’ve been avoiding.
Don’t wait for “someday” to feel proud. Celebrate the small wins—they’re what success is made of.

You’re Not Failing. You’re Just in Year One.

It’s hard. It’s messy. Some days will feel like you’ve made a huge mistake.

And yet--you’re doing it.

You’re building something that didn’t exist before. You’re learning every day. You’re putting yourself out there when it would be easier not to.

And that? That’s something to be proud of.

If you need help finding balance, guidance, or simply someone to talk to about your next steps, reach out to the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre. We’re here to walk with you through the learning curve.

You don’t have to do this alone.

And no—freedom isn’t a myth. It just doesn’t always look the way you thought it would.
0 Comments
First Last



Leave a Reply.

    Categories

    All
    Advice From Our Advisors
    Bookkeeping
    Business Administration
    Business Finanaces
    Entrepreneurship
    Goal Setting
    Local Business Profiles
    Marketing
    New Year
    Revenue
    Small Business Finances

  • Home
  • Programs
    • Starter Company Plus
    • Summer Company
  • Events
    • Bridges
  • Resources
    • Tools
  • Contact
  • Articles