Dreaming about entrepreneurship?

For many of the clients I work with, the dream of business ownership is powerful. They’re driven, skilled, and ready to be their own boss. But for one reason or another—maybe it’s capital, timing, or a little uncertainty—they’re not quite ready to buy a business.

And honestly, I get it. It’s a massive decision.

While my focus is helping clients acquire businesses, I’d be doing a disservice if I didn’t present a compelling alternative. I recently came across an eye-opening article on Inc.com: “Solopreneurs Are Booming and Making Six Figures. Here’s Why.” The data is striking: business owners working without staff now make up 80% of all small companies—and they’re thriving.

This got me thinking. What if your journey to business ownership starts not with a purchase, but with a solo venture?

It may sound unusual coming from me—the advisor who doesn’t earn a commission if you start solo—but my goal is to help you achieve your long-term dream of entrepreneurship. Sometimes the best path isn’t the most direct.

Why Solopreneurship Might Be Your Perfect Interim Step

1. Leverage Your Existing Skills

As a solopreneur, you can turn the skill sets you’ve honed over your career into a thriving business. You already have the knowledge and drive to succeed—this path lets you test the waters with flexibility and minimal overhead.

2. A Stepping Stone to Something Bigger

Many solopreneurs don’t stay solo forever. They grow their business to the point where hiring staff becomes necessary. Along the way, you’re building a foundation, proving your concept, and gaining the experience needed to scale.

3. Build a Sellable Asset

It’s true that a solopreneur business often starts as highly dependent on the individual. But once you successfully establish your venture, you can bring on a general manager, acquire a complementary business, and implement systems that don’t rely solely on you. This turns your solo venture into a valuable, sellable asset—building equity for your future.

So, if you’re an aspiring business owner who’s feeling the itch but isn’t ready to buy, consider solopreneurship as an interim step. It allows you to gain experience, confidence, and momentum that could eventually lead you back to acquiring the perfect business.

Sometimes the unconventional path is the smartest one.