Thinking of working for yourself?

In my role as a career and life coach, I work with many clients aged 40 and above who have reached a fork in their career path. For some, there is the attraction of being self-employed. How fabulous to be your own boss, avoid office politics and be more in control of your own work. It’s what many people want, especially if they are looking after a family at the same time.

Who would not want this? Well, many people find it hard to make that leap.

If you are at a career crossroads and are thinking about going it alone, you have two main options: freelancing in your current role or starting something completely different. It’s easy to lack the confidence to do either, which is where a coach can help by being a partner in structuring those changes, helping you plan what to do and building your self-belief.

It’s vital to be honest with yourself. If you have always had a dream to restore furniture, bake wonderful cakes, design gardens or set yourself up in your current profession, what is holding you back? It’s often fear of failure, undergoing change and not being certain of the outcome.

Change is scary for everyone. But small steps make the whole process easier. It’s usually possible to dip your toe into the water without jumping straight in at the deep end. If you have a skill, why not begin by offering it to friends and contacts while you still hold onto your day job? It could be something as simple as a raffle prize, a charity auction or a free trial for a client.

This way, you can test the market without incurring too much risk. Many businesses can be started from home with a desk, a phone and a computer. A simple website, networking and a professional-looking online presence can help you get started.

I’m currently coaching clients who are holding down the day job but are also studying part-time as a foundation for their next career. Slowly but surely, they are preparing for the transition so they can move into a new career.

I’m also coaching clients who, when they first came to me, were working from their spare bedroom but are now in commercial premises and employing staff. It’s hugely satisfying for me, and for them, to see this kind of progress.

Many clients have always had a dream. When I ask them what they’d like to do, they often say, “I’ve always wanted to do...” More often than not, they have chosen a more secure but less satisfying alternative.

Ask yourself the following:

• What’s your dream?
• Are you fulfilled and fulfilling your potential?
• If not, why not?
• What is holding you back?

Write down your answers and then reflect on them. Is it because you have a “can’t do” mindset? Are you afraid to take a risk? How can you take that step but minimise the risk?

My top 10 tips for working for yourself successfully

1. Be 100% enthusiastic about what you want to do.
2. Be positive. Learn to challenge self-doubt.
3. Take small steps while gradually leaving behind your comfort zone.
4. Explore courses, loans or grants that may help you become better qualified or fund your learning.
5. Set yourself 3, 6, and 12-month goals. Break down the first goal into a weekly action plan.
6. Be prepared to work hard. Working late into the evening after a day at work can be the norm initially.
7. Network. Explore the market for your skills before and after you create your business. Talk to friends, contacts and relevant groups, and use professional platforms.
8. Don’t undersell yourself. If you are qualified, experienced or have a quality product, don’t sell it or yourself too cheaply. Appreciate your value.
9. Be willing to invest in support, such as upgrading a website or using a marketing or media expert to take your brand from amateur to professional.
10. Talk to a coach who can keep you on track and act as a sounding board and motivator. But I would say that, wouldn’t I?