As of lately I’ve been wondering if job security is really that good. I’ve been observing how people still build and plan all their life based on the premise that they will get a high paying job for someone else. What’s with opening a business? Stakes are higher, I get it. But do we really have so much fear in ourselves that we can’t open our business. I’m not talking about a consulting firm, that is self-employment, I’m talking about a real business, one that could eventually work without you being there. You know, making a real product.
I don’t think Job Security is the answer and here’s why. It’s not the answer because as of lately my goals in life have changed and I’m planning on moving faster and not in waiting until someone decides I’m ready. Probably by being young and not having a fat resume I won’t get hired by a big company paying me the amount I need to make. It’s not about the money itself, it’s about the projects I can fund with the money that interests me. So I’m ready to start a business (besides my consulting firm which I love). I need the money because it’s hard to find Angels or VCs wanting to invest on the Internet in Peru. It’s tough and we need to be creative in the ways we fund projects. I’m up for the challenge.
Job Security is not for people that can’t fit into the model. I doubt that most of the people with a safe and secure job are enjoying it or living out their passion. Some do, for sure, but not the vast majority. On the other hand you could do things a little different. How about starting a project in the two hours after work?
You arrive home, say hi to your wife, kids, dogs, cat, mom and grandpa and then start working hard on the project you have. No matter what it is, even at slow pace you can make it happen. For example, today I was at the presentation of a web project made by two college students on their free time and this website has turned into a huge sucess that is loved by their readers and is becoming the top source for Peruvian soccer news. The project is already making money and it didn’t took much off the creators time.
This side project will probably won’t make them super rich but a similar approach could yield you a job that you love, one that you’d want to stay in and one you’re passionate about. But above all you’ll become the owner of your own destiny. Sounds scary, but what should be scary is putting your future in the hands of your employer.
