What Entrepreneurship is NOT
In the age of social media, entrepreneurship is often romanticized as the ultimate path to freedom and fulfillment. The idea of quitting your 9-to-5 job, pursuing your passion, and doing only what you love is an attractive dream. But here’s the reality: entrepreneurship is not what many think it is.
1. It’s Not Just Doing What You Love
Many people believe that starting a business in a field they’re passionate about means they’ll spend all their time doing what they love. That’s simply not the case. When you’re an entrepreneur, especially in the early stages, you wear all the hats—sales, marketing, customer service, bookkeeping, content creation, and so much more. For my wedding videography business, which has surpassed six figures in revenue, I can confidently say that 80% of my time is spent on tasks that have nothing to do with filming weddings. Instead, my days are filled with client relations, editing, social media marketing, and managing the business side of things.
2. It’s Not Easier Than a 9-to-5
A common misconception is that entrepreneurship will provide more freedom and fewer working hours compared to a traditional job. The truth? You will work more—way more. Instead of clocking out at 5 PM, you’ll find yourself answering emails at midnight, troubleshooting unexpected problems, and hustling to keep everything afloat. It’s a grind, especially in the beginning when you’re doing everything yourself.
3. It’s Not Retirement
Some people think entrepreneurship means stepping away from work and letting the money flow in. While passive income can be a long-term goal, getting there requires an immense amount of work. Until you’ve built your business into something profitable and structured enough to delegate tasks, you’ll be in the trenches, working harder than ever. True entrepreneurship isn’t about escaping work—it’s about creating something sustainable that, over time, allows for more flexibility and choice.
4. It’s Not the Easy Route
Friends and family might think you’re crazy for leaving the stability of a paycheck to chase a vision. And truthfully, there will be times when you’ll think you’re crazy too. There will be moments of self-doubt, financial strain, and overwhelming responsibility. But the entrepreneurs who push through what Seth Godin calls "The Dip"—the tough middle phase where most people quit—are the ones who see real transformation in their lives and businesses.
The Reality Check—And The Payoff
This is not meant to be discouraging, but a wake-up call. Entrepreneurship is not a shortcut to happiness, financial freedom, or a life of ease. It’s a commitment to long-term growth, resilience, and adaptability. But if you can endure the tough parts and stay the course, the rewards are unlike anything a traditional job can offer. Once you build something sustainable, hire out the work, and refine your systems, you’ll gain the flexibility and success that many dream about.
So if you’re considering entrepreneurship, go in with your eyes wide open. It’s not what social media makes it out to be—but if you’re willing to embrace the reality, it can truly change your life.
