Transition from the 9-5 this year?

You dream about the freedom, flexibility, and control over your life that comes with being your own boss.

The transition is a process, but this is how you grow. Keep reading to set yourself up for success.

The truth.

That paycheck? It's like a (false) security blanket you've wrapped yourself in.

I know. I've been there.

That steady income stream seems impossible to walk away from when you dwell on it. It's designed to keep you 'comfortable.'

Too comfortable - a false sense of 'comfort.'

Here's the truth about stepping out on your own that no one talks about:

Financial fear will grip you. Just know that's normal.

What most don't talk about is the upside and freedom to set your own income.

With a commitment to a higher quality of life and more freedom over your time, schedule and life - anyone can make the transition.

I stepped out in 2015 and never looked back.

I'll walk through the key steps to help you start planning now for your transition.

Build a safety net.

Money is the obvious mental hurdle to jump over.

• Emergency funds that cover 3-6 months (minimum)

• Side hustles that generate income before you leap

• Lean operations that don't drain your bank account

Making money independently is easier than you think.

Create some structure.

Create a framework and 'ways of working' that support your success:

• A dedicated workspace (even if it's just a corner of your bedroom)

• Daily routines that keep you focused

• Clear boundaries (because your new work can consume your life if you let it)

• Regular check-ins with people who are supportive and can hold you accountable

Tame the voice in your head.

You know the one. It whispers "What are you doing?" right when you're about to take the leap.

Imposter syndrome hits almost everyone when you first step out and fly solo.

But the following things will contribute to your solo-success:

• Never stop learning

• Celebrate small wins (because those add up)

• Be open to real feedback (not just praise)

• Surround yourself with people who get it

• Never quit

One of the easiest ways to get started is to transition to independent work doing something you already know well.

The benefits are that you can choose who you work with and determine how much you pay yourself.

The easiest ways to secure new clients?

• Once you're ready to step out - announce your new status and ask for referrals from those who know you, your skillset and background

• Tap into your existing network (you already know more people than you think)

• Build your personal brand - don't wait until you leave your current position

• Deliver so well that clients want to refer you to others

Time becomes your most precious asset.

Depending on your personality, without a corporate structure - or boss to answer to, you might find yourself either working around the clock or procrastinating needlessly.

Successful solopreneurs learn to guard their time fiercely:

• Block your days and time intentionally

• Set clear goals (and actually hit them)

• Know your peak productivity hours and protect them

• Be conscious of being "busy" versus 'productive'

Working independently can feel isolating initially.

But it doesn't have to stay that way:

• Stay active and posting daily on LinkedIn

• Join networking groups or co-working spaces

• Connect with other professionals doing independent work

• Collaborate on projects

• Keep your social life active (because work isn't everything)

Outsource everything that's not your skillset or interest.

Get expert professional help early on.

• Invest in professional support, i.e. legal, accounting (if needed), coaching, etc.

• Use tools and systems to make work easier

• Templatize or systematize everything you can

Maintaining balance becomes your own mandate when you work for yourself.

- Set real boundaries

- Take actual breaks

- Keep your hobbies and interests alive

- Prioritize your health

The path to independence isn't a straight line. It's not supposed to be.

But here's what nobody tells you:

Stop waiting for permission. Stop waiting for the "perfect time."

There isn't one.

Your corporate job? It's not as secure as you think.

True security comes from betting on yourself.

Ready to break free? The first step is deciding you deserve more than just dreaming or 'thinking' about it.

I'm close to launching my Income Accelerator for LinkedIn - the exact system I used to get leads right in LinkedIn and start generating money fast - even before I stepped out on my own.

Go here to make sure you're informed as soon as it's available.

Take action now. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed.

The choice is yours.

Set yourself free. You can do this.

I Believe in YOU!!

Until next time,

LuRae

Be You and Be Free

p.s. to get this newsletter in your LinkedIn feed weekly - go here