Becoming your own boss

We provide four reasons to start your own business

For many people being an entrepreneur has become a legitimate career choice. This is because South Africa offers numerous business opportunities for individuals with a business mindset and there are very low barriers to entry. Here are four reasons why you should think about becoming an entrepreneur and starting your own business.

1. Turn that dream into a reality

Starting your own business does not mean you’ll be stuck behind a small desk in a makeshift office, aided by an assistant you can barely afford. Looking at the bigger picture, taking the step to business ownership is really the end of a dream and the beginning of a reality. Starting your own business allows you to generate an income by doing something that you enjoy and enables you to take control of your life and determine exactly what will become of it.

2. Set your own status quo

Most companies have a hierarchy set in place and followed by all its employees to ensure their status quo is met. Essentially, many people compromise their own identity in order to fit in with the company culture. By starting your own business not only are you able to pick who you work with, but you also have the opportunity to set your own rules and standards. You can focus all your attention on the work that you actually want to do instead of just doing the work that you have to do. In addition to this, you won’t have to face the type of limitations that would normally prevent you from climbing the corporate ladder. In your own business, you are at the top – which gives you the flexibility to take your career in whichever direction you choose.

3. No more clocking in and out

An 8 to 5 job can certainly add structure to your life but after a while, your life can start to take on the very essence of a ticking clock. With your own business you can set your own working hours and deadlines. You won’t be able to lie in bed till 3pm and just watch the money roll in, but with some self-discipline you can set yourself the hours that will work best to help you meet your targets. The flexibility you will have will also ensure that you have the opportunity to improve your work-life balance. You can spend quality time with the family without having to fill out a leave form.

4. Get something out of it

Being an entrepreneur can be a very profitable endeavour. The start up process can be straining with little money and long hours, but this can help ensure that sowing the right investments will reap the right rewards. As a bonus, you won’t have to share these rewards. With your own business you’ll have a direct financial line and stream of revenue. If for some reason, the steady job you depended on suddenly becomes rather unsteady, you will have something to fall back on and an income to keep supporting you.

The University of Cape Town (Law@Work) Start and Manage a Small Business short course starts on 25 September 2012. The course is presented entirely online throughout South Africa. For more information contact Roxy on 021 447 7565 or roxy@getsmarter.co.za. Alternatively, visit: www.GetSmarter.co.za.