From 9-5 to Entrepreneurship

Hey there. Happy Saturday! 2 months into building my own business, I already feel much busier than I did with a day job.

Though I make time for family on weekends and at night, my mind doesn’t rest. Compared to my previous 9-5 life, it’s a very different feeling. I want to share 3 reflections with you.

Entrepreneur vs. Employee

Recently, an image keeps popping into my mind: a small kayak drifting on the ocean, with a person in it trying to catch, finish, and sustain their daily consumption. Meanwhile, there are all sorts of boats on the ocean trying to fish in the same waters. There are giant ferries whose fish harvest alone can sustain the whole ship for months if not years.

That’s the best analogy I can give if people ask me what’s the difference between starting my own business versus working in a company as an employee.

When I worked in a corporation or startup, it was similar to being a part that keeps a boat working. I only needed to do what I was good at—design. It was hard to see or get trained on how the other parts worked: sales, marketing, business development, data, engineering, you name it. Now, working as an entrepreneur, I have to catch my own fish daily and keep paddling to figure out what’s next.

The disadvantage is the risk and instability. You cannot rest for too long. How would a kayak be safe when a huge storm or wave comes if you are not ready for it?

However, the advantage is speed and survival skills. A small ship moves much faster and can build a complete fishing operation on its own. That’s the attractive part of entrepreneurship—understanding the market and being able to find customers even as a tiny boat.

Market V.S Product

Interestingly, I came across Rajiv’s post discussing how struggling entrepreneurs are more focused on the ship rather than the wind.

Considering that wind, waves, and weather conditions are all external factors from the market, these elements often seem more important than the ship itself. If a founder doesn’t know where the fish and wind are going, how could they survive on a kayak?

So, the most important lesson here: being able to get fish (paying customers) is the single most important thing a solopreneur can focus on. No matter how early that is, even before having a boat (product/company), founders should feel proud that they are able to convert customers early on.

Of course, VC-backed startups are different from solopreneurs. I remember a video from YC’s Startup School suggesting founders stop chasing shiny objects like speaking engagements, PR, and interviews. Those things may seem productive, but they don't move the needle for a startup.

As I get distracted by many channels and have more opportunities to attend offline events, I have to keep reminding myself: catching fish and building a stronger boat are the two most important things early on. Nothing else matters until those two things are stabilized.

External advice V.S. internal voices

I am a big fan of self-growth and improving myself through reading and listening to audiobooks, podcasts, etc. Every time I read something, I generate many ideas on how to improve myself or my business.

I also have trusted mentors and coaches I can turn to when I face difficulties. These experts’ suggestions matter a lot when I don’t know what to do.

However, as I get busier implementing all the ideas and following others’ advice, I have decided to take a pause.

Instead of listening to audiobooks, I now listen to music and let my mind flow freely. Instead of responding to all the requests, I carve out time just for myself and note down what’s on my mind.

I believe there is great potential in seeking internally rather than externally.

Final notes

My journey from a 9-5 job to entrepreneurship has been a whirlwind of new experiences and challenges. The stark contrast between being an employee and an entrepreneur has taught me the critical importance of acquiring customers early and focusing on core business activities. 

While external advice from mentors and resources like audiobooks and podcasts has been invaluable, I’ve realized the immense potential in taking time for internal reflection. By pausing to listen to my own thoughts and carving out personal time, I’ve found a balanced approach that fosters both personal and business growth. Ultimately, blending external insights with internal wisdom will become a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial journey.

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