Building a One-Person Business While Juggling a 9–5 Job
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Chapter 1: Embracing Constraints
Every morning, my alarm jolts me awake at 5:00 am, marking the start of a focused routine. I have a crucial 90-minute window for concentrated work. After making my bed and hydrating, I sit down at my desk, ready to dive into writing.
Time is precious, especially with a busy day ahead, and this early slot is my golden opportunity for creative output. My evenings are reserved for reading, meditation, and reflecting on the day’s events.
The truth about balancing a business with a demanding 9–5 job is that limitations often inspire innovation. The worst scenario for me is having a blank page and endless time, which leads to procrastination. To combat this, I prepare my Notion Writing System the night before, ensuring I have a structured article waiting for me in the morning. I set a timer for an hour and get to work.
When time is limited, my productivity spikes. According to Parkinson's Law, tasks will take as long as the time allotted for them. On productive days, I can complete an entire article within an hour—though it will require some editing later, the bulk of it is done.
Paradoxically, having more time often hampers my productivity. Less time fuels my creativity and compels me to focus. In those 60 minutes, I concentrate solely on writing, eliminating distractions like emails and social media. This singular focus allows me to delve deeper into my work, channeling all my energy into one task.
After my writing session, I transition to preparing for work and utilize my commute for another writing opportunity. While most commuters are absorbed in their screens, I seize this time to progress toward my goals. Many individuals overlook the potential of their available time. If you're satisfied with your routine, enjoy your shows. If not, take action.
Focus over Distraction
Since the beginning of the year, I've invested nearly $10,000 in online courses. However, I'm beginning to realize that the gap lies not in knowledge but in execution. It’s time to transform that knowledge into actionable steps that generate income. I've recognized a pattern of overthinking instead of taking decisive action and decided to halt any further course purchases.
My criteria for success now hinges on action. If I find myself struggling due to a lack of knowledge, I’ll consider coaching for targeted advice rather than generic courses. Here’s what my action plan looks like:
- Taking more sales calls and engaging with potential clients in DMs.
- Regularly creating and promoting both free and paid offerings.
- Writing daily for platforms like Medium or LinkedIn.
Any activities outside of these three are simply distractions. I won't lie; these tasks push me out of my comfort zone. I still grapple with limiting beliefs regarding sales and marketing, so these actions challenge my perceived capabilities. Yet, that discomfort signals where I should focus.
I’ve embraced my current life phase: a single individual without children or caregiving duties. This setup grants me full control over my time. I dedicate my extra hours to learning, executing, and expanding my career while cultivating a one-person business. I don’t plan to alter this arrangement soon.
Some may view my situation as unrealistic for their circumstances, and it very well might be. However, you can extract principles from my approach and tailor them to your situation. Don't dismiss the value of what I share just because it seems unattainable for you.
You might not have two hours daily; begin with just 20 minutes. You may face interruptions, whether from children or other responsibilities, and that’s okay. Start with what you possess and where you stand. The ideal moment will never arrive; the best time to embark on something new is when life is busy. If you can manage it during hectic times, you can handle it at any stage in your life.
The Reality of Balancing Work and Entrepreneurship
Building a business alongside a 9–5 job can be monotonous at times. Much of it involves routine tasks that may not always excite me. I have days when motivation wanes, and fatigue sets in. Yet, I commit to showing up, irrespective of my mood.
Interestingly, I've discovered joy in the mundane. Writing daily has become a source of anticipation for me. I would continue to write even without an audience or financial gain. The resistance I feel when I don’t write surpasses any discomfort I experience while doing it.
If you can accept this reality, make sacrifices, and embrace solitude, you're ready to build your own business.
Start Your Journey
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Chapter 2: Practical Tips for Busy Individuals
In the video "How To Start A Business While Working A 9 to 5," you'll discover strategies for launching a business alongside your full-time job, maximizing your productivity even with limited time.
The second video, "How to Start a Business While Working Full Time (9-5 or as a busy mom)," provides insights for anyone looking to balance a full-time job while pursuing entrepreneurship, whether as a busy parent or a professional.