Seems like nowadays everybody wants to be a manager or to become self-employed. Being an entrepreneur sounds so tempting with promises for success, power, financial independence, and freedom.

But is it actually that great?

Our managing partner Martin Konstantinov started PFG Bulgaria 9 years ago. For this period he has learned his fair share of lessons. And now he’s ready to pass on both negative and positive aspects of running your own business.

9 Negative Aspects of Running Your Own Business

  1. You don’t have an official working time. You take care of all kinds of responsibilities and have to be available 24/7.
  2. You don’t have a boss. You have BOSSES because every client is actually your boss.
  3. If you don’t like something, you have to find a way to fix it. You can’t just say “I quit!”.
  4. There’s no one to officially complain to about all the extra tasks you do which are not included in your job description. Even if you complain to someone, you’ll still have to do them.
  5. You take care of the company’s finances first. Your salary is second in line. Often you will receive less money than an employee with the same responsibilities hired in another company.
  6. Forget about saying “I’m on my paid leave. Don’t bother me.” When there’s a problem, you’ll be the first person your clients contact.
  7. You’re constantly out of your comfort zone. You always have to find a way to deal with unexpected tasks.
  8. Your employees will never work the same way you do. After all, you’re the owner, not them.
  9. The problems of every team member are your problems too

9 Positive Aspects of Running Your Own Business

  1. You create and develop things in which you truly believe.
  2. You build the environment and culture in which you want to work.
  3. You have the power to change – not only how your own work week looks but also the lives of people around you.
  4. You learn to think long-term and in perspective.
  5. You discover new solutions and understand that there are no unsolvable problems.
  6. The experience you gain, both personal and professional, is invaluable.
  7. You learn to appreciate time and every spare minute. The pleasure of relaxing after a job well done is incredible.
  8. You decide who to work with. If you don’t like a potential client – you don’t sign with them and no one can oblige you to do the opposite.
  9. The pleasure you experience of a job well done is multiplied because you were at the root of everything!

Like any other aspect of life, being a business owner is not just black and white. It’s all kinds of colours. And these colours can form either a rainbow, a beautiful painting or complete chaos.

But that’s the beauty of it!