Here’s a hard truth: just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. Too many entrepreneurs start out chasing side hustles or business ideas they’re good at but don’t love—and it’s a one-way ticket to burnout, frustration, and mediocrity.
If you’re slogging through work you hate, hoping it’ll someday get better, let me save you the trouble: it won’t. Success doesn’t come from tolerating misery; it comes from doubling down on the work that sets your soul on fire.
The Trap of the “I Can, So I Should” Mentality
One of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make is saying yes to everything. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m good at this, so I might as well offer it,” you’re falling into the “I can, so I should” trap.
Here’s why it doesn’t work:
- It dilutes your focus: Trying to do it all means you can’t excel at anything.
- It drains your energy: Work you hate takes twice as much effort and leaves you exhausted.
- It stifles your passion: When you’re buried in tasks you don’t care about, it’s hard to stay motivated.
The result? You end up building a business that feels more like a job—a job you can’t quit because you’re the boss.
Why Fulfillment Is Non-Negotiable
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money; it’s about creating a life you love. If your business doesn’t align with your values and passions, you’re just spinning your wheels.
Here’s what happens when you prioritize fulfillment:
- You work harder, smarter, and longer: Passion fuels effort.
- You attract the right clients: Authenticity resonates, and the right people will seek you out.
- You build a business that lasts: Fulfillment isn’t a trend; it’s a foundation.
The Warning Signs You’re Doing the Wrong Work
Not sure if your work is aligned with your purpose? Watch for these red flags:
- You dread starting your day.
- You find yourself procrastinating on key tasks.
- You feel disconnected from your vision or mission.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to reassess what you’re doing—and why.
How to Pivot Toward Work You Love
Let’s get practical. If you’re stuck doing work you hate, here’s how to make a change:
- Identify your strengths and passions: What lights you up? What are you naturally great at?
- Streamline your offerings: Focus on services or products that align with your skills and interests.
- Learn to say no: Turn down projects or clients that don’t excite you.
- Invest in yourself: Take courses, hire coaches, or network with people who inspire you.
Pivoting isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
From Side Hustle to Sh*tstorm: Why It Happens
Side hustles often start with good intentions: you want extra income, a creative outlet, or a way to test the waters. But if you’re not careful, that side hustle can snowball into a full-blown sh*tstorm.
Why? Because what starts as a small gig can quickly morph into a time-sucking monster that derails your long-term goals.
FAQs
Why is doing work you hate so harmful?
It drains your energy, stifles creativity, and keeps you stuck in a cycle of unfulfilling work, making it harder to achieve meaningful success.
How do I know if I’m doing the wrong work?
Signs include procrastination, lack of excitement, and a feeling of disconnect from your business vision.
Can I still pivot if I’m already established?
Absolutely. Many successful entrepreneurs pivot multiple times before finding their sweet spot.
What if I don’t know what work I love?
Start by exploring your passions, strengths, and values. Experiment until you find what resonates.
Is it selfish to focus on work that fulfills me?
Not at all. When you’re fulfilled, you’re better equipped to serve your clients and make a positive impact.
How do I say no to clients or projects that don’t align?
Be honest and professional. Explain your focus and refer them to someone better suited for their needs.
Conclusion: A Personal Note from Chris
I’ve been there—up to my neck in work that I hated, chasing opportunities that I thought made sense because they were profitable. But you know what? Every dollar I made doing work I didn’t care about felt empty as hell.
It wasn’t until I took a hard look at what I truly wanted that everything changed. I started saying no to clients who didn’t align with my values. I dropped services that drained me, even though they were making me money. And I doubled down on the work that actually fired me up.
The result? Not only did my business thrive, but so did I.
So if you’re stuck in a cycle of doing work you hate, let me tell you this: you don’t have to stay there. It’s scary to pivot, but the freedom, joy, and success on the other side are worth every bit of discomfort. You’re building this business for you—make it one you actually love.
Now, go do the damn thing. Stop settling, start thriving, and create a business that feels like the life you’ve always wanted.
