Joel Libava
Leaving your 9-to-5 job to pursue franchise ownership or entrepreneurship sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
No boss to report to, no rigid schedules, and the promise of building something that’s truly yours.
But before you hand in your resignation letter and dive headfirst into this new chapter, let’s take a pause.
Because here’s the thing: while the idea of running your own business is exciting, it’s not all Tahiti sunshine and summer rainbows.
And if you’ve been lured in by glossy ads promising “easy franchise success” or “passive income streams,” you may be setting yourself up for a rough wake-up call.
So, how do you know if you’re truly ready to leave your 9-to-5 job and take the plunge?
Experience tells me you need to start by asking yourself these 7 critical questions.
Ready To Leave Your 9-to-5 Job? Ask Yourself These 7 Questions
- Why Do I Want to Leave My Job?
Let’s get real here. Are you running away from something or running toward something?
If you hate your job, your boss, or your commute, it’s tempting to see franchise ownership as your ticket out.
But disliking your current situation doesn’t automatically mean you’ll love being a franchise owner.
That’s because owning and operating a franchise business is still work—different work, yes—but work nonetheless. Hard work.
On the flip side, if you’re driven by the desire to build something of your own, achieve financial independence, or take control of your future, that’s a more solid foundation to start from.
Pro Tip: write down your “why.” If it’s clear and compelling, you’re on the right path. If it’s vague or purely emotional, take some time to rethink your motivations for wanting to leave your 9-5 job.
- Do I Have the Financial Cushion to Handle the Transition?
Here’s the truth nobody likes to talk about: Leaving your 9 to 5 job comes with a great deal of financial uncertainty.
For instance, even if you’re buying into a proven franchise system, it will take time to see profits. And in the meantime, bills don’t stop coming.
With that in mind, do you have enough savings to cover at least 6–12 months of personal household expenses while your franchise gets off the ground?
And don’t forget about the upfront investment.
Franchise fees, equipment, leases, inventory—it all adds up.
As a matter of fact, many franchises require an initial investment of $100,000–$500,000 or more. Are you financially prepared for that kind of commitment?
Reality Check: If you’re putting your entire life savings on the line or taking out a loan without a repayment backup plan, it’s time to pump the brakes.
- Am I Comfortable Taking Risks?
Franchise ownership isn’t risk-free. Sure, you’re buying into a proven business model, but even the best franchises can fail if they’re in the wrong market, managed poorly or hyped-up with no data to back up the hype.
Ask yourself:
- Can I handle the uncertainty of not knowing when (or if) I’ll see a return on my investment?
- Am I willing to adapt and pivot if things don’t go as planned?
If the thought of risk keeps you up at night, staying in your 9-to-5 job might be the safer (and saner) choice for now.
- Am I Willing to Work Harder Than I Ever Have?
Here’s a reality check: Leaving your 9-to-5 job doesn’t mean you’ll work less. In fact, franchise ownership often requires more hours, more effort, and more responsibility—especially in the early stages.
Remember, you’re not just an employee anymore.
You’re the boss, the problem solver, the marketer, and the go-to person for everything.
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and do whatever it takes to make your business succeed? decide now. Before you sign the Franchise Agreement.
Pro Tip: talk to a lot of current franchise owners. Ask them about their day-to-day workload and the challenges they face. Get a clear picture of what you’re signing up for.
- Am I Interested in This Industry?
Not all franchises are created equal, and not all industries are a good fit for your personality, skills, and interests. You don’t necessarily need to be passionate, but you should have some interest in the sector.
For example, if you’re thinking of buying a fast-food franchise but hate dealing with people, that’s a red flag.
And, if you’re considering a fitness franchise but have zero interest in health or wellness, think again.
Bottom line?
Your comfort and interest in the type of business you own is what will keep you going when the long hours and tough days start to wear on you.
Ask Yourself:
Do I genuinely enjoy this industry?
Can I see myself doing this for 5, 10, or even 20 years?
- Do I Have the Support System I’ll Need?
Owning a franchise can be a lonely road, especially if you’re used to the camaraderie of an office environment. But it’s not just about emotional support—it’s also about practical help.
Do you have a mentor, a coach, or a network of fellow franchisees to lean on when challenges arise? What about your family? Are they fully on board with your decision to leave your 9-to-5 job and start a business? If they’re not, you have some persuading to do. Because you’re going to need their support.
Tip: surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through and can offer guidance, encouragement, and honest advice.
- Am I Ready to Be the Boss?
This might sound great in theory—after all, who doesn’t want to be the one calling the shots? But being the boss comes with its own set of challenges.
As a franchise owner, you’ll be responsible for:
- Hiring and managing employees
- Handling customer complaints
- Ensuring your business complies with franchise standards
- Making tough decisions when things don’t go as planned
With those things in mind, if you’re not ready to step into a leadership role, franchise ownership might not be the right move for you—at least not yet.
Final Thoughts On Leaving Your Job, And If Franchise Ownership Is Right For You
Leaving your 9-to-5 job isn’t a decision to take lightly. It’s a leap of faith* that requires careful planning, self-reflection, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
*It’s also a carefully investigated decision.
If you’ve answered these 7 questions about leaving your 9-5 job honestly, and feel confident in your ability to tackle the challenges franchise business ownership will give you, congratulations. You might just be ready to make the jump.
That said, if you’re still unsure, that’s okay too.
Take the time to explore your options, build up your financial cushion, and learn everything you can about franchise ownership.
Because while leaving your 9-to-5 job can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make, it’s also one of the most important. And you owe it to yourself to get it right.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore franchise opportunities, talk to industry experts, and start building your plan today.
Because success is waiting—if you’re ready to work for it.
And own it.
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