There are two sides to every story, it is said. Nowhere is this more true than in the import and export market. While the prospects of owning your own business and working for someone else are vastly different, one constant is for sure: which one is preferable depends entirely on your point of view. While few like the idea of having a boss, for some people it is completely necessary. It takes a special kind of person to do it on your own, be it in the import and export market or in any other industry. The most important thing is to know the pros and cons in advance and only take the next step after you have honestly assessed where you are.
Independence vs. Work for “the man”: When you work for someone, it’s easy to focus on the bad. Truth be told, everyone has their good days and bad no matter who signs the paycheck. Don’t go into your own export and import business if you think all your problems will magically disappear. You will likely work harder for yourself than you did for someone else. However, many people are still drawn to the prospect of running their own business because of the full sense of independence that comes with knowing that you set your own hours. However, it is important for you to realize that those hours still need to be recorded one way or another.
Routine paycheck vs. Set Your Own Goals – A routine paycheck like the one an employee receives has many advantages. Comfort and safety are easy to get used to and they can make for a difficult adjustment when you get going on your own. However, the big difference that attracts people to work for themselves is the control one has over one’s own destiny. Working for someone else gives you, on average, a 3 percent pay increase per year, and you always have to look over your shoulder for layoffs. Working for yourself gives you unlimited income potential.
Hard work vs. Busy work: In a typical job, you show up 8-12 hours a day and you’re there whether you need it or not. That leads to a lot of unnecessary work. Working independently ensures that the things you achieve are for the strengthening of your business.
Market Research – A necessary evil for any business, working on your own means you have to collect all the information yourself or pay to have it outsourced. Either way, it costs a price that you may not be willing to pay. Working for someone else generally means that the tools you need are always at your disposal.
Peace of Mind: What helps you sleep at night? Take a chance and make your way or live with the monotony of prefabricated security. The best choice depends on who you are and what you want out of life.
