Is Buying A Small Business The Best Way To Secure Professional Flexibility?

by Sufyan 17th of November, 2015

Grinding away at the 9 to 5 in a corporate company can often leave a lot to be desired. If the job's intense, it can be difficult to strike a truly satisfying work-life balance. Moreover, such roles often come with strict deadlines, leaving you with that sinking feeling of not fully utilising your skillset.

On the flip side, small business owners tend to wear many hats, lead lives where no two days are the same, and generally secure a sense of professional freedom that many people envy. So, should you sign on the dotted line for a business for sale if you're looking for increased flexibility?

Adapting to the lifestyle

Well, the definitive answer to that question will be based on individual circumstances, but owning a small business can certainly allow you to better integrate both home and work lives. Guardian contributor Tim Aldred explained that many small business owners – particularly those that work from home where possible – can plan their time around other commitments.

For example, if you're looking at taking on a business later in your life, family arrangements could be a concern. However, Mr Aldred surmised that it's relatively easy to shift working patterns to account for doctors appointments, the school run etc, providing you're willing and able to make up the time elsewhere.

Flexibility = more motivation

While a flexible working arrangement will require you to be a self-starter, chances are you'll be more motivated to get things right. Small Business Trends contributor Jamillah Warner explained that a level of freedom in work can actually provide more drive over the long term.

This is due to the fact that if and when there are deadlines to be met, you're not tied to rushing around to get everything prepared in an eight hour work day. Taking a break or even a step back for a few hours can offer perspective, and ultimately make you more productive when you get back to work.