Opinion: Why being an entrepreneur is a lifestyle decision

“Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” Mark Twain famously remarked. Yet, many people find themselves trapped in jobs that feel more like a “day prison” than a fulfilling career.

They suffer from a lack of pride in their organisation, minimal appreciation, an absence of challenges, and an unwillingness to go beyond basic requirements. These symptoms reflect a deeper dissatisfaction that can lead to a loss of autonomy, self-worth, and even a sense of humanity—similar to the feelings reported by real prisoners.

Lifestyle The Escape Route: Embracing the Misfit Within

For those who feel trapped in this metaphorical day prison, the idea of a sea change in retirement or escaping on a cruise ship might be appealing. However, there’s another option: embracing the fact that you may simply be a misfit in your current situation. Instead of waiting for retirement to find freedom, why not consider a lifestyle change now by becoming an entrepreneur?

Entrepreneurs often “break the mould” by rejecting society’s norms of traditional employment. They are frequently seen as misfits, difficult employees who struggle to submit to authority or work in a pre-structured environment. This rebellious spirit is not a flaw but a strength—a sign that you’re ready to chart your own course and create a life that aligns with your values and passions.

Lifestyle Genuine Reasons to Become an Entrepreneur

One of the main reasons people become entrepreneurs is that their creativity doesn’t fit within the rigid confines of a corporate environment. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in a traditional workplace, this could be a sign that entrepreneurship is the right path for you. Embracing your uniqueness, rather than conforming to corporate culture, can lead to discovering something truly beautiful.

Another compelling reason to choose entrepreneurship is the desire for a lifestyle that isn’t bound by the traditional nine-to-five workday. While it’s true that being an entrepreneur often means working long and hard hours, the flexibility to control your schedule and destiny is a powerful draw. This freedom allows entrepreneurs to align their work with their personal values and passions, creating a more fulfilling life.

Entrepreneurs are also driven by a passion for learning. Unlike those who view education as a phase that ends with a degree or a job, entrepreneurs see learning as a lifelong journey. This constant quest for knowledge and growth keeps them energised and engaged, pushing them to innovate and adapt in an ever-changing world.

Lifestyle The Unconventional Path to Success

Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. It requires imagination, resilience, and a willingness to embrace unconventional ideas. As Mark Twain is often quoted as saying, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” This mindset is what drives entrepreneurs to take risks, explore new opportunities, and challenge the status quo.

Studies have shown that entrepreneurs are generally happier than employees. In a research study conducted by Wharton, 11,000 graduates were surveyed about their happiness levels. The study found that the biggest predictor of happiness was entrepreneurship. People running their own businesses reported higher levels of happiness, regardless of how much money they made. This suggests that the autonomy, creativity, and personal fulfilment that come with entrepreneurship are key factors in achieving a happier, more satisfying life.

Lifestyle The Lifestyle Decision

Being an entrepreneur is not just a career choice; it’s a lifestyle decision. When 25 entrepreneurs were asked what they love most about being an entrepreneur, the number one response was, “I get to control my own schedule and destiny.” This sentiment captures the essence of entrepreneurship—the freedom to design your life on your own terms.

Entrepreneurship allows you to break free from the constraints of traditional employment and create a life that reflects your values, passions, and ambitions. It’s about more than just making money; it’s about living a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. By choosing to become an entrepreneur, you’re choosing a path that offers the opportunity to achieve personal and professional satisfaction, all while enjoying the journey along the way.

Alan Manly OAM is the CEO of CampusQ and author of The Unlikely Entrepreneur. To find out more, visitwww.alanmanly.com.au