I went viral for sharing only HALF the story.

The dark side of solopreneurship

Hello dear friends

Last week, I shared a post about how my life changed after I quit my job to pursue my writing full-time.

It got 10k+ views and had many people commenting how they were inspired by my story.

The response got me thinking: What if someone perceives this post as an endorsement for quitting your job? I'm not someone who would ever say a college degree or a 9-to-5 are worthless.

And that's why, today, I want to share with you the OTHER side of the coin.

The dark side of all the struggles you face and the sacrifices you have to make to work full-time on your passion project.

Since 2019 -

I've barely written anything for fun. Writing used to be a cherished hobby back then. Now, it's just work. It's something I do for money.

I made 300+ videos and spent INR 40k+ on YouTube before making a single penny out of it.

I don't have the concept of "doing nothing" or "chilling" in my life. I'm either working, working out, or traveling. And even when I'm traveling, I always carry my laptop. It's been ages since I watched something on TV or completed a web series.

Before quitting my job, I worked hard so I was already making more than my day job's salary for 6 months.

I have 187,000+ followers on Medium. And even now, I have to bargain for $100-$200 with brands who think they're "paying fair."

2024 was a lean year. On many months, I had to take loans from my family and friends.

No matter how much "social media exhaustion" I feel, I can't do a digital detox. My business runs on social media, and I need to be present if I want to stay relevant.

My parents still lament that I gave up a Central Government job. Last month, I showed my mother how much I made, and her response was, "But I feel sad you're no longer working at NIT Silchar. That job came with so much respect."

I could go on, but you get the drift.

Social media glorifies entrepreneurship like it's the one shiny goal everyone should aspire for. But entrepreneurship isn't an alternative to your 9-to-5. It's something that demands 100% out of you, and makes you go through hell before you can see light.

Do I regret quitting my job? NO!

But do I advise people to quit their job to pursue their passion? Also no.

Because the harsh truth is: Not everyone can thrive in this life. If it's for you, it will call to you. And you'll know.

Let me know your thoughts by replying to this email.

I’ll see you again super soon with another new email.

Love,
Anangsha