{"id":10649,"date":"2026-01-10T17:34:30","date_gmt":"2026-01-10T17:34:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.whatjobs.com\/info\/uncategorised\/the-big-decision-how-to-decide-whether-to-become-self-employed\/"},"modified":"2026-01-10T17:34:30","modified_gmt":"2026-01-10T17:34:30","slug":"the-big-decision-how-to-decide-whether-to-become-self-employed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/the-big-decision-how-to-decide-whether-to-become-self-employed\/","title":{"rendered":"How to decide whether to become self-employed"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you might expect, there are some challenges at being self-employed<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some you expect, and some you definitely don&#8217;t, but there are always new twists and turns in self-employment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The overall goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of what means to work for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From start-up to retirement or closure, follow our tips for anyone considering starting their own business to look at the the pros and cons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-self-employment\"><strong>What is Self-Employment?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simply put, it means working for yourself rather than for someone else or a company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means you turn into your own boss, and you are solely responsible for your own career, the work you do, and the money you make from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no one to you what to do, as well as no one to sign the paycheck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With huge companies shedding staff, the possibility of starting a business and working for yourself has never looked more appealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, the entrepreneurship challenge is not for everyone, and understanding what qualities make a good company owner can assist people in determining whether or not they will be successful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also look for other alternatives like being a sole trader, or operating as a freelancer, if entrepreneurship is not your thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many entrepreneurs\u2019 readiness quizzes available online to help people assess their skill levels and personality traits in order to prepare for starting their own company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It should be noted that such quizzes are only intended as self-evaluations and should never discourage anyone from pursuing their dreams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanks to today\u2019s digital world and the benefits of social media, running an online-only company without any business premises is now a possibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-don-t-give-up-if-you-have-a-brilliant-idea\">Don\u2019t Give Up If You Have a Brilliant Idea<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A brilliant idea is a brilliant idea, and you should always believe that \u2013 and pursue it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you would like to start as a small business owner to become self-employed but discover that you lack some of the behavioral traits that might be needed, there\u2019s not a real reason not to go for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can change and improve, and if you\u2019re aware of these character traits \u2013 or flaws \u2013 you\u2019re in a position to work on them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:18px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-six-characteristics-of-the-successful-entrepreneur\">The Six Characteristics of the Successful Entrepreneur<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In today\u2019s business world, there are six basic characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today\u2019s most successful business owners are self-directed, consciousness, intervention, highly energetic, and risk-tolerant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being a risk-taker, as well as a desire to be wealthy, are not among these characteristics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Actually, a lot of self-employed business owners have little interest in either.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The majority of history\u2019s business owners do not become extremely wealthy, but instead start their own company for the challenge, chance, and sense of independence that entrepreneurialism provides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People who are keen on becoming self-employed must have a lot of self-motivation, because there is no doubt the success or failure of the business is entirely down to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They must have belief in their own product when no one else does, and they must be able to quickly rekindle their possess passion for their work when necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today\u2019s businesses employ various marketing techniques mainly through social media, email marketing, affiliate programs, and many more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A lot of energy is needed to be a self-employed business owner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are numerous demands and a lot of stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And if you like the 9-5 lifestyle, you\u2019re in for a surprise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-expect-the-unexpected\">Expect the Unexpected<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can\u2019t predict everything that will happen if you run your own business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Successful owners of businesses must not only be able to deal with the unknown and also take calculated risks in order to minimize business damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are self-employed, you can either choose to be the sole proprietor which is a one-person business or look for a partnership to run the firm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People might choose self-employment for a variety of reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On one end of the spectrum, the self-employed person can be viewed as a single, entrepreneurship and innovative employee with a micro businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the other, being self-employed provides an opportunity for those who may not be suited for working for a bigger organization to work for themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People who need flexible hours may choose it as a means of earning if they struggle to find a role with the necessary flexibility at a bigger company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-people-become-self-employed\">Why People Become Self-Employed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"http:\/\/www.whatjobs.com\/info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10677\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682-950x633.jpg 950w, https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Homework-1024x682-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People become self-employed for reasons such as job satisfaction, independence, and higher returns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, some people may find themselves the victims of circumstance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They could be forced into self-employment because they may be unable to find another opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a person\u2019s motivation for self-employment is the former, then the entire situation can be viewed favorably because it will provide the business owner with the chance to raise their everyday living standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the other hand, a person could become self-employed for negative reasons, like being forced to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the person, there is a chance that they will find themselves unprepared<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A similar situation could also consequence in a postponed transition to unemployment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why is self-employment growing?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are numerous reasons for the increase in self-employment, with the following being among the most common:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The number of employees searching for full-time jobs is much more than the amount of jobs available in the field.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Outsourcing of labor saves employers a lot of money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rapid technological advancements tend to replace many jobs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The need to have flexible working time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The removal of an entire management layer has resulted in fewer opportunities for advancement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The advancement of web technology has made the concept of self-employment available as well as a low-cost area to enter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The younger generation necessitates more freedom in their work, which is particularly abundant in being self-employed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Many people aspire to be bosses one day by working for themselves. But the question would be whether self-employment is the best option for you<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other reasons include the desire not to have a long commute to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-disadvantages-of-being-self-employed\">What are the Disadvantages of Being Self-Employed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some of the disadvantages of being self-employed include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unpredictable income<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are going to take the plunge, it\u2019s a good idea to talk to other self-employed people to learn more about what it\u2019s like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s also wise to do some research on the market you want to enter, as well as learning about things like how to do your taxes and keep records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some good questions to consider are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How much flexibility and comfort you can demonstrate when confronted with an unknown situation?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are the business\u2019 fixed expenses, and what kind of resources and financial security do they have (median income or savings)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is the rate of growth of the segment of the market into which you intend to venture?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can social media be an effective marketing strategy for my company?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do you possess the qualities of hard work, self-discipline and self-motivation?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-success-is-not-the-key-to-happiness-happiness-is-the-key-to-success-if-you-love-what-you-are-doing-you-will-be-successful-philosopher-albert-schweitzer\"><em>\u201cSuccess is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.\u201d<\/em> \u2013 <em>Philosopher Albert Schweitzer<\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-should-i-work-for-myself\">Why Should I Work for Myself?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you searching for a way to work for yourself and be your own boss?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether to be your own boss is a difficult decision, especially if you have been receiving a consistent monthly salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many benefits of being self-employed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You have your fate in your hands, you make all the decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You choose why you do something and when you do it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve given yourself the opportunity to pursue your dreams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s in your hands how much or how little you earn and how flexible your work-life balance is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can mean you get to see more of your children and your friends because of your flexible schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-self-employed-mindset\">The Self-Employed Mindset<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An ancient Chinese proverb states: \u201cBe not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most self-employed people understand the need to put in some extra effort compared to someone who might be working 9-5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Essentially, you are held accountable for everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Making connections is vital \u2013 contacts, suppliers, clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And remembering all the little things, like ensuring you set up a business bank account, is actually a fairly huge task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>To make the most of being self-employed means having the right mindset, which includes:<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ability to break the comfort zone<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excellent problem-solving and decision making<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understanding your own strengths and weaknesses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Becoming self-employed is a life-altering decision, so its strongly advised you\u2019ve thoroughly researched all aspects of your new life to ensure you have the best chance of being successful.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As you might expect, there are some challenges at being self-employed Some you expect, and some you definitely don&#8217;t, but there are always new twists and turns in self-employment. The overall goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of what means to work for yourself. From start-up to retirement or closure, follow &#8230; <a title=\"How to decide whether to become self-employed\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/the-big-decision-how-to-decide-whether-to-become-self-employed\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about How to decide whether to become self-employed\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":10654,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[73,24],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10649","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-self-employed-advice","category-career-growth"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10649","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10649"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10649\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10654"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10649"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10649"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/py.whatjobs.com\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10649"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}