From University to Entrepreneurship… for Someone Unfamiliar with Independence
The Challenges of Professional Independence
Entrepreneurship and professional independence represent a major challenge for those transitioning from university to the working world. This September will mark two years since I left the classroom to step into “real life,” as some call it. Will I return one day, but this time to teach?
For now, I work to progress, evolve, and move forward, driven by the lightness of freedom that seeks to push away the burden of insecurity. Freedom and insecurity are words often associated with independence, whether in a social context through legal texts, in a cultural and economic context through political discourse, or as a character trait and way of life through philosophical writings.
Two years ago, I had the opportunity to discover the world of entrepreneurship when I joined the capital of BestValue and became part of the operational team. Yet, before this twist of fate, my career path seemed entirely predictable. In my mind, I had a predefined idea of work, heavily influenced by my surroundings and environment. I was set on working for a large corporation as an employee. I never imagined the work dynamic that awaited me.
The Advantages of Entrepreneurship
Being independent means managing the commercial, marketing, production, after-sales, financial, administrative, executive, and development departments… all at once. And that’s not even an exhaustive list. While decision-making in large organizations is often confined to one’s immediate scope, an independent professional must consider every decision at all levels. Of course, developing your own business doesn’t make you an expert in everything. But it does shape an entrepreneur into a skilled generalist, ironically, a specialty in medicine.
Being independent also means embracing opportunity. Everything is open. From a slight market repositioning to a complete overhaul of the business model or even a small adjustment to the product offering, every option is accessible and conceivable. It can be implemented in the short or medium term. This flexibility and freedom come with responsibilities. Of course, they have their limits, just like independence and entrepreneurship itself. Risks must be carefully assessed and studied. Rushing in blindly is not always the answer.
Strategies for Success as an Independent Professional
In finance, we often talk about the concept of leverage. Borrowing at a reasonable cost can offer a better return on capital while expanding growth opportunities. This does carry a risk, of course. Will the business be able to generate enough cash flow to meet its obligations? Leverage isn’t always comfortable, but it’s worth considering, isn’t it?
Isn’t entrepreneurship itself a form of professional leverage for some of us? Taking the risk… to succeed? Gaining the right to make a living from one’s project, whether alone or in partnership, and developing it without barriers or limitations? Daring to step out of one’s comfort zone, beyond the implicit framework that often seems imposed by the independent worker status? Naturally, this involves sacrifices and a certain level of insecurity that must be carefully weighed against various factors. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s worth thinking about, isn’t it? Something to reflect on…
There’s no single standard or uniform path. Everyone should ensure they do what they love, in conditions that suit them best. You will find fulfilment whether you are an employee, worker, or independent professional. And why not switch between these work models throughout a career? I am convinced that every option has its advantages and disadvantages, which each person will appreciate differently. Perhaps the key is simply realizing this…
Antoine Renier, BestValue
