How to Set Up Your Brand and Business Before Leaving Your 9-to-5

We’ve all been raised on that classic advice: go to school, get a good job, and stay there for security. But in today’s world, the so-called “safety net” of a 9-to-5 job has started to unravel for many people. From feeling overworked and underpaid to being uninspired or even burned out, it's no wonder so many are daydreaming about breaking free from the grind. Much of the issues come from unrealistic expectations and fantasies being shared with those who want to break free.

But before you hit that “Quit” button, let's talk about what it really takes to leave your 9-to-5 and build your own successful brand and business. Knowing how to set up your brand and business before you take that plunge will make all the difference. Unfortunately it becomes too romanticized to dip from your 9-to-5 to be “your own boss.” Spoiler alert: it’s not just about jumping ship—it's about setting yourself up for long-term success. Ready to learn how to prepare for the leap? Let’s go.

How To Set Up Your Brand Properly?

This is where the magic (and the math) happens when understanding how to set up your brand. It’s easy to get swept away by the idea of “freedom” from your job, but the reality is that bills don’t take breaks. So, let’s get practical. How much money do you actually need to make to live comfortably?

Forget the gross income from your 9-to-5—what’s your take-home pay? The amount that keeps your household running smoothly, pays for your essentials, and maybe leaves room for a little fun? Answering this question is your first step toward understanding how much revenue your new business needs to generate. When I started my business I realized I wanted to build a sustainable brand, but I was missing critical pieces: what would sustainability look like for me, a woman living in New York and wanting to thrive and not simply survive.

You might realize you don’t need as much as you thought—or maybe you’ll realize you need more. Either way, it’s crucial to map out these numbers before you even think about resigning from your job. Knowing your financial goals will help guide you in planning your work hours, pricing your services, and setting realistic expectations. Don't simply get swept up into someone else's fiction: get down into the numbers and what your business and brand would look like as you build your idea of sustainability.

Define Your Vision: How Big Do You Want to Go?

Now let’s get into the heart of the matter: What’s your vision for your business? Some entrepreneurs dream of world domination—going global, scaling into a massive enterprise with locations everywhere. But maybe that’s not you.

Maybe your dream is to build a local empire, to make a name for yourself in your community and change the lives of your neighbors. And guess what? That’s just as valid (and powerful). Success doesn’t have to look the same for everyone.

Take the time to sit down and map out your vision. Is your goal to work fewer hours and have more time for your family? Do you want to create a business that reflects your values and serves a specific group of people? Once you’re clear on what success looks like for you, it’s easier to craft a business plan that aligns with your personal goals and lifestyle.

The Timing Question: When Should You Leave Your 9-to-5?

So, when’s the best time to leave your 9-to-5? The truth is, there’s no perfect answer. But the key is to not leave until you have a solid plan in place, and you've fully taken the time to understand how to set up your brand. It’s not just about being fed up with your job—it’s about being ready. It's about having your plan in place, so you can implement what you've learned about how to set up your brand.

Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Financial Cushion: Have you saved up enough money to cover a few months’ worth of expenses? Starting a business doesn’t mean instant income, and having a financial cushion can reduce the stress while you get things rolling.
2. Business Foundations: Do you have your brand, services, and audience figured out? Have you started building your website and marketing materials? The more prepared you are, the smoother your transition will be.
3. Mindset Shift: Are you mentally ready to be your own boss? Running a business isn’t always easy, and you need to be ready for both the challenges and the rewards. If you’re still second-guessing yourself, it might not be time just yet.

The Rundown: Purpose and Passion Will Guide You

At the end of the day, leaving your 9-to-5 isn’t just about escaping the grind—it’s about moving toward something better. It’s about purpose, passion, and creating something that you’re truly proud of.

Find what drives you. What’s the thing that lights you up, the thing that makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning? When you’re passionate about what you do, everything else falls into place. You’ll work harder, stay focused, and be more willing to push through the tough days.

Whatever you decide to do, remember to do it with purpose and excellence. Your brand is a reflection of you, so give it everything you’ve got. And when you’re finally ready to leave that 9-to-5, you’ll do it with confidence—knowing you’ve built something incredible that can stand the test of time.