xoSelf (short for Love Yourself)) is a weekly advice series where women can anonymously seek advice on topics about relationships, work, finding themselves or life challenges. xoSelf is responded to by educator & life coach Dr. Walter Hidalgo.
Dear xoSelf: I’m in my late thirties and not getting any younger. I have a passion business that I love and wake up every morning excited to work on it. Unfortunately, it isn’t paying my large bills just yet. But I know that if I had more time to grow the business I would be able to supplement my income. I have some money coming in a few months that could keep me afloat if I quit until my business makes profits. However, I’m super scared to quit my 9 to 5 to manifest my dreams. What if things don’t work out and I’m unable to find another job like the one I have? But I hate my job, I used to love it, but lately it makes me miserable to go in. Should I take the leap of faith?
Answer: I tell this to everyone: Do not leave your stable job(s) until you have developed an exit strategy. Keep the 9-5 but remain steadfast in your dreams by working diligently before 9am and after 5pm because those are your hours (not your jobs). When things start picking up from your entrepreneurial endeavors and you therefore feel that you are making just as much if not more than your current salary; that is a sign from God telling you it’s time.
Related article: 12 Questions to Ask yourself Before you Launch a Business
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Dr. Walter Hidalgo is an educator and coach. He has a master’s of arts in Church History and Sociology from Union Theological Seminary at Columbia University and a doctorate from New York Theological Seminary where his focus was on the intersectionality between Hip-hop culture and socio-spiritual movements. He has taught in universities, high schools, prisons, not-for-profit organizations, and faith-based institutions from all over the world. And finally, he is the author of the critically acclaimed book, “Beyond the Four Walls: The Rising Ministry and Spirituality of Hip-hop” where he has worked with numerous Hip-hop artists, educators, and youth from all over the world to create spaces of fun and empowerment.