What I Wish I knew Before Leaving Corporate for Entrepreneurship

We are only one quarter into 2025, and already, I have seen several friends making bold career decisions.

One friend realised they have outgrown their company and are exploring their next move. Another walked away from a well-paid corporate senior position after five years, now standing at a crossroads, wondering:

"Should I pursue another corporate role or take a leap into entrepreneurship?"

If you have been asking yourself the same questions, you're not alone.

Having been through this journey myself, here are four factors to consider when you're at this pivotal juncture:

What's driving you to make this leap? Is there a purpose or mission fueling your decision beyond financial gain?

It's essential to ensure your motivation goes deeper than simply not liking your current job or wanting to escape something uncomfortable.

For me, starting GC Consulting wasn't just about leaving the corporate world —it was about building something very close to my heart. My mission was (and still is) to cultivate a client-centric community passionate about cultivating loyalty and curating meaningful human interactions.

This bigger purpose is my anchor during tough times or when the market didn't respond as quickly as I'd hoped. It reminded me why I started and kept me going.

💡 Ask yourself: What's the deeper "why" behind your entrepreneurial dream?

Many people dream of walking away from corporate life and starting something fresh—something they're passionate about. But before you leap, take a moment to align three critical elements:

• Your passions: What truly excites you and brings you joy?

• Your expertise: What are you uniquely skilled at or experienced in?

• Market need: Is there apparent demand for what you want to offer?

For example, if your passion is pastry-making and you excel at crafting gorgeous, gifting-style cookies, research whether there's a market craving your unique creations.

When these three elements align, you're not just starting a business—you're laying the foundation for a sustainable venture.

💡 Tip: Take time to do your research. Find the intersection of what you love, what you're great at, and what people are willing to pay for.

As Daniel Priestley famously said, "You get what you pitch for, and you are always pitching."

Entrepreneurship requires you to step into the spotlight and share your story passionately and consistently. Your potential clients need to know who you are, what you stand for, and what problems you solve.

I'll admit—this was a big shift for me.  In my corporate career, I'd post on LinkedIn maybe once a year. Now, I show up at least weekly because it's how I connect, share my mission, and engage with my audience.

💡 Find your channel: Whether it's LinkedIn (for writing), Instagram (for visuals), or YouTube (if you're comfortable on video), pick a platform where you can authentically showcase your work and your voice.

In entrepreneurship, your network is your net worth.

A strong network is invaluable—it's your support system, your sounding board, and highly possible your first client.

Starting today, be intentional in building your network:

• Connect with people who share your values

• Surround yourself with champions who will promote you

• Engage with potential clients and listen to their needs

• Seek our mentors who will cheer you on and offer guidance

💡 Tip: Start cultivating your community now. Relationships are the backbone of any entrepreneurial journey.

Taking the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship is a deeply personal decision. It takes courage, clarity, and commitment.

But if your mission is clear, your passion aligns with market needs, and you're ready to put yourself out there, it could be the most rewarding leap you'll ever take.

If you find yourself at this crossroads and would like to explore what this journey could look like for you, I’d love to chat. Let’s connect — whether to brainstorm, share insights, or simply listen. 

Whenever you are ready, here are the ways we can support you (or your business) to thrive in your industry:

• Review your customer loyalty strategy

• Audit luxury Customer Journey & Experience

• Master The Art and Science of Clienteling

• Design your VIC Event & Experience

• Deliver an Inspiring Keynote

• Support your leadership and communication development