Hey there, fellow dreamers and hustlers! Let’s talk about something that’s near and dear to my heart: the beauty of being an entrepreneur. You know, that magical, sometimes chaotic, often fulfilling journey of building your own business. Whether you’re just starting out or have been at it for a while, there’s always something to learn, something to celebrate, and something that reminds you why you chose this path.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s explore the ups, downs, and everything in between that make entrepreneurship so exciting!

22 Years of Freedom: How It All Began

I can’t believe it’s been 22 years since I took the plunge into entrepreneurship. Back in August 2002, I didn’t have a grand plan or a clear vision – I just knew I wanted to work for myself. What I didn’t realize was how much hard work, hustle, and sleepless nights it would take to get here.

For the first 12 to 15 years, it was non-stop. Late nights, early mornings, long hours, you name it. I had to hustle hard to build my business, and honestly, there were times I wondered if it was worth it. But now, 22 years in, I can confidently say YES! It was worth every sleepless night and every challenge. 

Today, I’ve designed my life and business around what truly matters to me – freedom, family, and fun. And that’s what makes being an entrepreneur so beautiful. You get to decide how to live your life. You get to set the rules. You get to define success on your own terms. 

The Freedom to Choose

One of the things I love most about being an entrepreneur is the freedom to design my own schedule. I’m in control of my time, which means I get to make space for the things that matter. For me, that means being there for my family, taking care of my health, and yes, sneaking away for a couple of days to rock out at an 80s concert (Def Leppard, anyone?).

Recently, my husband and I took a spontaneous trip to San Francisco to catch some of our favorite bands from the good ol’ days. We spent the day by the bay, indulging in clam chowder, strolling around Pier 39, and enjoying life – without rushing back to work. That’s the kind of freedom entrepreneurship offers – the ability to just *be* in the moment.

But First, the Hustle

Before I got to this place of balance, I had to put in the work. For years, I was grinding away, trying to figure it all out – marketing, sales, operations, and everything in between. But over time, I realized something important: you don’t have to work *harder* to build a successful business; you have to work *smarter*.

This is where automation, delegation, and systems come in. Once I started putting systems in place, things got easier. My business began running more efficiently, and I could step away without everything falling apart. It allowed me to scale and grow without losing my sanity.

And that’s the lesson I want to share with you: don’t get caught up in the grind. Focus on working smarter, not harder. Invest in the tools, systems, and people that will help you run your business more smoothly. Trust me, the hustle is temporary, but the freedom you gain from working smarter lasts a lifetime.

Why Freedom is the Best Reward 

Being an entrepreneur is about more than just making money – it’s about having the freedom to live the life you want. I’ve had the incredible privilege of shaping my business around my life, not the other way around. Whether it’s helping care for my mom, spending quality time with my family, or pursuing my passions, my business gives me the flexibility to make it all happen.

I recently had a client who’s been slowly transitioning out of her 9-to-5 as her business grows. She’s cutting down her hours and starting to taste that sweet freedom. And let me tell you, seeing her excitement and joy as she gains control of her life is what lights me up. It reminds me of why I love what I do – helping others find their freedom.

The Power of Community and Support

Here’s a secret I wish someone had told me early on: you don’t have to do it alone. Building a community and surrounding yourself with the right people is essential. As an entrepreneur, it can be tempting to go at it solo, but the truth is, success is a team effort.

One of the best things I did was get involved in local networking groups and Chambers of Commerce. Those relationships became invaluable when I started my business. If you’re still in a 9-to-5 and dreaming of entrepreneurship, start building your network now. Don’t wait until you’re ready to leave your job – begin fostering connections and building your community early. That way, when you make the leap, you’ve already got a support system in place.

And let’s not forget about your email list! Growing and nurturing your list is another key to success. People won’t buy from you immediately, but with consistent communication and relationship-building, they’ll eventually become loyal clients.

Taking the Leap: Don’t Wait for Perfect

One thing I hear from aspiring entrepreneurs all the time is, “I need to replace my income before I can leave my job.” And while that sounds reasonable, it’s often unrealistic. The truth is, you don’t need to fully replace your income before taking the plunge into full-time entrepreneurship. Once you leave your job, you’ll have 40+ hours a week to dedicate to growing your business. That’s when the real magic happens.

So, stop waiting for perfect conditions. You don’t need a perfect plan or all the pieces in place to start. Take the leap, and trust that you’ll figure things out as you go. Entrepreneurship is an evolution, and as you grow, your business will grow with you.

The Evolution of You and Your Business 

Being an entrepreneur isn’t just about building a business – it’s about evolving as a person. You’ll learn how to be a better boss (especially to yourself), set boundaries, and make decisions that prioritize your happiness and health.

I’ve learned the hard way that being a good boss to yourself means giving yourself permission to take breaks, set limits, and focus on what matters. It means hiring help when needed, even if you’re capable of doing the tasks yourself. Why? Because your job as a business owner is to stay in your strategic zone, to focus on the big picture.

The Best Decision You’ll Ever Make 

So, to all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there – just go for it. The beauty of being an entrepreneur is about more than financial success; it’s about creating a life that aligns with your values, passions, and goals. It’s about living life on your terms and embracing the freedom that comes with being your own boss.

I’ve been at this for over two decades, and I can honestly say, entrepreneurship is the best decision I’ve ever made. And guess what? It can be yours too.

Cheers to the journey, the lessons, the freedom, and most importantly – the fun! Here’s to creating a business that lights you up and allows you to live the life of your dreams.

Let’s make it happen together!

Want to learn how to build a successful business and live life on your own terms? JOIN ONE OF THESE EVENTS! 

Nov 6, 12-1 pm PST  Virtual Lunch and Learn: Jumpstart Your Authority & Credibility with a Book

• 10-15 min is for introductions of all members on the call for networking as well as any local chapter news.
• 40 minutes for the speaker presentation(s) plus Q&A.
• You’ll also get the opportunity to meet current NAWBO members and learn about membership benefits.

This event is free to attend, but registration is required. 

Join me – RSVP here!

LEAP Business Incubator Mastermind every 3rd Tuesday – Join Mary Gaul, CEO of Leap, and myself, Katrina Sawa. We’re partnering monthly on leading this high-level mastermind that any women entrepreneur can attend. You may attend this event in person one time as a guest, then if you are not joining as a member, there is a $20 fee that will be applied per event. Click here to learn more and register for an upcoming mastermind

November 9 from 9-11 am (local) – Coffee Connect with the Placer County Dots

Location: Shady Coffee & Tea, 325 Douglas Blvd, Roseville, CA 95678

Anyone is welcome to join us, RSVP here.

November 15, All Day in/near Phoenix, AZ – The Empower & Elevate Conference for women! I’m a panelist, vendor and good friend of the organizer and I’ve gone to this event (literally flown to AZ from CA) 3 times because it is THAT good! If you’re a woman on a mission, especially one in AZ or surrounding states, you should come join me!  Learn more and Register here!

January 28-30, 2025 – The Business Reimagined Conference is happening again end of January and you’re invited to come IN PERSON to network, learn and take your business to the next level. Panelist spots and sponsorships still available plus TICKETS ARE JUST $77 right now on Early Bird! Reserve your seat today so you can start the year off with a bang.

Let’s make this YOUR BEST YEAR ever!

I know how to show you how to tweak what you’re doing to get really BIG RESULTS in the next year! Book a 1on1 clarity session with me here now! Here’s to creating and enjoying a life full of lots of Love & Money!

Katrina Sawa, The Jumpstart Your Biz Coach