Why I QUIT my $300,000 per year job to start a business in a recession.
I have always been a dreamer. But the problem with being a dreamer is that life always finds a way to bring you back to reality.
The more you have, the more you stand to lose. Add to that those who depend on you, and playing it safe seems like the only way to live.
So, I guess you can say I’ve been playing it safe for the last eleven years. I made a good living, provided for my family, and enjoyed the finer things in life. But I was unhappy. Distracting myself with toys to escape my real issue. Being unfulfilled.
Ever since I can remember, I’ve dreamt of being my own boss. To start and own a business. To create. To inspire. To make a difference and help those in need.
Making good money made me comfortable. And comfort is the killer of progress.
“The opposite of bravery is not cowardice; it’s conformity.” — Rollo May.
Why am I writing to you today? Because I feel deep inside me a calling to share my story to help just ONE person.
I left my job at 40, and my only regret is not doing it sooner.
It saddens me to see more and more companies put profits ahead of people. And it makes me angry to see how little effort they put forth.
I long to build businesses that challenge the status quo. Where care for employees means more than a pizza party or a holiday ham. A place that doesn’t demand your blood, sweat, and tears while paying you minimum wage.
Yes, I may be a dreamer. But from now on, I will never stop chasing my dreams.
So what could you accomplish in 90 days if you didn't have a job? Believe it , or not, here is my list of accomplishments:
-Started a mortgage company.
-Created a video marketing agency.
-Started a YouTube channel and co-created 3 videos.
-Co-created video content that generated 300,000 views
-Learned video editing.
-Learned script writing.
-Learned basic cinematography.
-Learned to build a website.
-Learned how to use various AI.
-Created an imaginary cookie company using AI tools with my daughter.
-Read 3 books.
-Co-created a digital product.
And last but not least, I wrote a first draft of a sitcom pilot! It’s about a group of friends starting a boy band in the their 40’s. Anyone know a studio exec for me to pitch it to?
Listen, I love to learn. But it’s crazy to think I’ve done more in 90 days than in the last 10 years. Exploring my creative side has opened my mind.
You may ask why I couldn’t have done this while still working. Why quit? Why not keep the job?
Well, here is your answer.
Because I had to burn the ships. No going back. I knew that if I didn’t leave, another 10 years would pass in a glimpse. Then, I would be 50, in the same place, still wondering what could have been.
“The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now.” — unknown.
I quit because it was the opposite of taking the safe route.
One day I want to tell this story to my daughters and inspire them to chase their dreams.
If you are itching for a reason to start yourself, then remember this. Your employer only needs you for as long as you are useful and comply with their demands.
46% of today’s jobs will be eliminated by 2030!
YOU will have to become the business. It will no longer be good enough to be just the technical expert.
Are you ready for AI to take your job?
I am going to keep sharing my experiences. And if this is for you, please let me know, as I am considering doing a monthly meet-up.
In the meantime, Carpe Diem — stay tuned, and I am here if you need anything.
