My alarm rings at 5:30 am, and I find myself struggling to find a reason to get out of bed. Rubbing my eyes and stretching, I head for a shower, hoping to shake off the grogginess. As the hot water cascades over me, I ponder: Is all this effort worth it? This is my first year juggling these roles; it's supposed to get easier, right? The shower helps wash away my doubts, and I emerge feeling pumped for the day ahead. Fully awake now, I head to a coffee shop to dedicate the first two hours of my day to my company, Wrong Side Creations.
These morning hours, filled with drawing, creating, crafting, building quotes, and immersing myself in all things graphic design, bring immense joy. This time is also crucial for client meetings and correspondence, allowing me to maximize these uninterrupted hours.
After this, I return home to start my full-time job at a fantastic software company. They've been incredibly supportive of my entrepreneurial venture, understanding the demands it places on me. Whenever possible, I try to sneak in project revisions or client emails during any spare moments. But make no mistake, I commit a full eight-hour day to my software job.
Once the workday ends, my personal life awaits: taking care of my dogs, making dinner, spending time with my wife, and trying to unwind. But the day's not over yet – there's still drawing, creating, crafting, drafting, finalizing, quoting, emailing, and more. Most of this happens in front of the TV, though!
This is a typical day for me, not including the times I attend Chamber of Commerce meetings, networking events, Run Club (my escape on Mondays and Thursdays), doctor appointments, and client meetings. I also work most weekends, dedicating at least 5-7 hours each day to my business.
I'm not sharing this to complain, but rather to offer a glimpse into what it takes to start a small business. I'm fortunate that I don't rely solely on my business for financial support, thanks to my full-time job. Without it, those eight hours would be filled with an even more intense search for clients and work to support my lifestyle.
This journey is a labor of love, driven by my passion for what I do every day. Even on mornings filled with dread and doubt, my love for my work prevails.
To anyone considering following their passion or dream career: go for it! Don't hesitate, make it work. We have one life to live, and you are the master of your destiny. Entrepreneurship is not for everyone but everyone has a dream. You got this.
Much Love,
-Josh
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