Why Do You Want to Build a Business?

When considering the journey of entrepreneurship, what drives you?

You seek freedom—financial stability, flexibility with your time, and the ability to direct your energy as you wish. The ultimate dream is to live without the constant worry of finances. Many believe that the best way to achieve this freedom is by starting a business. However, let’s delve into a story that challenges this notion.

An American and a Mexican fisherman find themselves on a beach. The American observes the Mexican catch a single fish and wonders why he didn’t catch more, given his evident skill and the abundance of fish. The Mexican explains that he catches just enough to satisfy his hunger and prefers to spend the rest of his day relaxing on the beach with his family and enjoying some wine.

The American, puzzled, suggests that he should catch more fish to sell for profit, which would enable him to buy a bigger boat, then more boats, ultimately growing a business and becoming wealthy. When the Mexican asks how long this would take, the American estimates around 20 years. The fisherman replies with a smile, "But I can already relax on the beach with my family and drink wine now."

This story conveys a significant lesson: why endure hardships for a future that resembles the life you could enjoy today?

However, there’s a critical flaw in this idyllic tale. The fisherman lives in a bubble, detached from the realities of life. A minor crisis—a health issue, unexpected expenses, or an injury—could easily disrupt his simple lifestyle.

Imagine living in a bustling city, where bills pile up and expenses rise. Surviving on a single catch each day is hardly feasible. This is why many people aspire for financial independence.

So, what are your options?

You could secure a stable 9-to-5 job and dedicate decades to working for someone else. With careful budgeting and wise investments, you might retire comfortably. Alternatively, you could take the risk and invest your time and energy into creating your own business, hoping to reap significant financial rewards in the years to come.

But let’s be frank: neither option may provide the freedom you seek.

Sticking to a traditional job means sacrificing your best years for a company that prioritizes its interests over yours. On the other hand, building a business can be a grueling endeavor—working long hours with the hope of eventually making it big. The reality is that it often leads to stress, lost time with loved ones, and missed opportunities for personal fulfillment—all for the sake of money.

The goal of escaping the 9-to-5 grind was to enhance your quality of life, not to become enslaved to a venture you might not enjoy.

If your motivation is to eventually relax on a beach as a wealthy entrepreneur, reconsider the story of the fisherman. You might find that the allure of leisure fades quickly, and humans are not meant to idle away their days without purpose.

So, what’s the right approach?

The answer is straightforward: pursue a business that resonates with you—something meaningful that also generates income.

Yes, it may sound cliché, but what alternative do you have? How else can you achieve true financial independence and personal happiness? How can you contribute positively to the world if you don’t engage in work that matters to you?

Dismissing the idea that you cannot blend passion with work only detracts from the joy it can bring. Expect challenges, stress, and moments of boredom, but remember that’s a part of life. You also have hobbies, friends, and family—your life shouldn’t revolve solely around work.

So, are you squandering your time by building a business?

It ultimately hinges on your motivations. Are you creating something you love that makes a difference while also earning a living? Or are you merely chasing the elusive dream of success in hopes of one day enjoying life?

This article serves an informational purpose and should not be seen as Financial or Legal Advice. Always consult a financial expert before making significant financial decisions.