I quit my 9-5 job

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Hey there ,

It’s Eric here. Today’s a bit of a unique newsletter focusing less on newsletters and email marketing. I’ve been reflecting lately as it’s almost been a full year since I quit my 9-5 job to pursue online entrepreneurship.

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In November of 2023 (hard to believe it’s almost been a year), I made one of the most difficult decisions of my life—I quit my 9-5 job to pursue my online entrepreneurship full-time. It was a decision filled with uncertainty, excitement, and a lot of unknowns, but one I’ll never regret.

Leaving the traditional job market wasn’t just about saying goodbye to the office lifestyle—it was about shedding an entire way of life.

Here are eight things I left behind forever when I made the switch:

1. The Monotonous Commute

One of the first things I noticed after leaving my 9-5 was how much of my life I had spent driving back and forth to the same place every day. Hours every week spent sitting in my car, just…gone.

Granted, I could maybe use that time for a podcast or audiobook and redeem it a little. But still, I could’ve been working on my business, relaxing, or spending time with family or friends.

Now, my "commute" is a few steps to my desk or a booth at the local coffee. I reclaimed that time and, with it, a sense of freedom I hadn’t experienced in years.

2. Limited Creativity & Freedom

The rigid 9-5 structure meant working whether I was feeling productive or not. There were days when I sat at my desk, struggling to focus while counting down the hours.

Building an online business has given me the flexibility to work when I’m at my best. Some days, I might put in a 12-hour grind because I’m in flow.

On other days, I might work for three hours and spend the rest of the day recharging. It’s all about balance.

3. Asking for Permission for Time Off

Need a day off for a personal project? Want to go on vacation? In the corporate world, that often meant asking for permission.

Now, I set my own schedule and take time off when I need to. I can work ahead or delegate tasks to make sure they get done. Then, I can let go of work and enjoy my time off.

Whether it's a midweek adventure or a mental health day, I’ve taken control of my time.

4. The Sunday Scaries

That creeping feeling of dread on Sunday night, knowing the workweek is just around the corner? Gone.

Now, I look forward to Mondays because they’re no different from any other day—they’re just another opportunity to build, create, and connect with my audience. I no longer live for the weekend because every day feels purposeful and fulfilling.

5. Being a Part of Someone Else’s Machine

Working in a large company can feel like you’re part of a machine, where individuality is secondary to the system. I was working for someone else’s vision, contributing to a business that wasn’t mine.

Now, everything I do builds my future. I’m not a small part of someone else's puzzle.

6. The Office Dress Code

I said goodbye to uncomfortable business attire and the need to look “professional” every day. Suit and tie, button-ups and slacks, and uncomfortable shoes are all gone.

Now, my work wardrobe is anything I choose—whether it’s casual shirts or gym clothes—and it has zero impact on my productivity.

7. Dependence on a Single Income Stream

The 9-5 had me dependent on a single paycheck, which felt risky and restrictive (because it was). Any day I went into the office, the company could decide they didn’t need me anymore. Then…poof! That was 100% of my income, gone.

Now, with multiple income streams from my agency, newsletter ad revenue, or other business ventures, I’ve diversified my earnings and reduced my financial stress.

These 7 reasons and more are why I’m so glad I made the leap nearly a year ago. If you’ve been on the edge of going full-time in your online business and just need that final nudge, let these points motivate you.

It’s definitely worth it.

Thanks for reading!

Eric Higgs
Founder of Summit Group
Newsletter & Email Marketing Agency

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