After 30 years in the corporate world spanning multiple continents, industries and two handfuls of corporate employers, ways were parted and I began my own ventures.

Setting aside the building of a team of accountants, business advisors, brokers (to find lenders), banks, insurers and of course government and tax agencies, there was a lot of pre-work before any work was to be done. I could have done it all myself…but I’ll leave it to the accountants, advisors and tax attorneys to handle the things I don’t know how to do. All the while I was accruing expenses and there’s no revenue coming in. I was living off my savings and what used to be classified as discretionary expenses became restricted expenses…at the very least, it was deferred.

When I came home after the last day of work from my glass office, my daughter and I stared at each other. I’m sure her concerns were different from mine but still the same. Are we going to be okay financially? From her perspective, will dad be able to afford the house, food, school, extracurricular, vacations, etc? Her needs are more immediate and material. From my perspective, our needs are longer term. But unlike the last time I left the corporate world, this time, things were different.

I had an excellent career(s) and the companies I worked for were rock solid. I also met some very smart and influential people who helped shape the person I have become, both personally and professionally.

I had an excellent career(s) and the companies I worked for were rock solid. I also met some very smart and influential people who helped shape the person I have become, both personally and professionally. I wouldn’t change anything as I am left with an impression that were positive and eternal. Something I took with me with immense gratitude. But yes, occasionally, there were brief moments where I experienced that upper management was an exercise in musical chairs. But the system has a way of separating the wheat from the chaff and those that took up extra space were nudged to the exit.

That evening, I reflected on the decision I made and whether it was the right one. I often tell my daughter that if her friends weren’t gelling with her, or she wanted to explore new grounds, then she must find new pastures. I reflected and should take the same advice.

With that, I join a number of my friends who have already made the switch to self-employment! With my daughter being so supportive of this new stage of life for me, I was even more confident having taken the step!