Many of you dream of being self-employed, but you don’t actually take the leap. Why? For most, it comes down to fear. You know the rewards of self-employment are numerous, but something is holding you back.

It’s always better to face your fears, and then make an informed decision based on facts rather than emotion. So, let’s talk about the five most common fears regarding self-employment.

Fear of change. Some people are simply uncomfortable with change and all of the unknown future consequences of making a big decision. But ask yourself this question: In reality, what’s the worst that could happen? It doesn’t work? You will always have the option of returning to what you are currently doing! Compare that to the idea of never going for it and simply staying permanently stuck where you currently are. What’s really scarier to you?

Fear of commitment. Moving from a traditional job to self-employment does indeed require a significant commitment. You’ve made many commitments in the past; everything we plan in life, from agreeing to weekend plans with a friend to pursuing your professional education, marriage, buying a home, or having a child, represents a commitment. You’re clearly capable of making commitments… So why not commit to yourself?

Fear of (potential) financial instability. Financial instability often represents the biggest fear around self-employment. But there are two ways to look at this prospect:

• “Yikes! My income will be directly tied to how hard I work!”

….Or

• “Finally! My hard work will directly impact my earnings!”

Yes, it can seem scary to leave traditional employment and a regular, dependable salary. But the payoff is earnings that directly reflect your effort. And more specifically, your earnings won’t be subject to a ceiling any longer.

Fear of failure. Fear of failure is understandable, but in nearly every circumstance there are two ways to view failure:

• “That approach didn’t work. I guess I have to give up now.”

…Or

• “That approach didn’t work. Now I know what doesn’t work, so I will adjust my plan, pivot, and and do better/smarter going forward.”

Only you can decide which perspective to take, but you can probably guess which one produces winners!

Fear of marketing. You’ve trained as a Therapist, and you’re very knowledgeable in this area. But marketing is an entirely different skill. Don’t let anybody convince you differently. You might feel hesitant or just completely overwhelmed at the idea of marketing yourself, because you don’t have any clue what you’re doing.

Well, that’s true. Most people don’t know what they’re doing with regard to marketing… at least at first. You’re correct to assume that you can’t just go out and talk your way into agreements with employers, physicians, or auto claims agents. But when you dedicate yourself to building a solid base of knowledge first, you will then know how to communicate with these professionals and effectively portray yourself and your services to them.

And that’s the subject of our next article! Stay tuned!! We’ll work with how to market your srevices, so that you can grow your business as a self-employed therapist. As your practice grows in response to your diligent work, you’ll find that those other four fears simply melt away!