If you had told me a year ago that I’d be writing a blog titled “ From Corporate to Entrepreneur: My Journey One Year Later” I would have laughed in disbelief and probably called you mad.
I mean, who in their right mind walks away from a job that offers security, medical aid, a retirement fund, and reserved parking?
Let’s not forget the status and influence that came with my title — the kind that opened doors, got me on guest lists, and gave my voice weight in social and professional circles. I had what people called “social capital” — or at least I thought I did.
To make things more dramatic, I did not just leave my job — I left during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The world was dealing with retrenchments, salary cuts, business closures, and a sluggish economy. And there I was, choosing to start a business because I believed in empowering people with financial skills. Talk about audacity!
But enough with the theatrics — let’s get into it.
A New Chapter: TKO Financial Wellness Opens Its Doors
On 1 August 2021, I walked into my beautiful new office in Maseru West. I was full of dreams, ambition — and nerves. I was finally my own boss. No reporting lines, and no clocking in. Freedom!
But that freedom came with serious responsibility. For the first time, I had to think about where the money would come from — not just for rent, but for my own salary. Thirty days fly by quickly when you’re the one responsible for generating income — and let me tell you, there’s no HR officer processing salaries when it’s just you.
I’m writing this blog series to document my journey — the transition from employee to entrepreneur. I’ll share the mistakes, lessons, and truths most people don’t talk about. My hope is to offer real insight to anyone considering this leap — especially those who, like me, are looking for relatable experiences from people who look like us.
1. The Emotional Rollercoaster of Transition
I did not expect the emotional whiplash that followed. It took me nearly nine months to admit that I was struggling.
I held on tightly to the identity my corporate job had given me — the title, the lifestyle, the relevance. I could not believe how deeply it hurt to no longer be invited to events, to see my old hashtags being used by others, to feel invisible. Slowly, I sank into a quiet depression.
The loneliness was real. Despite my beautiful office, I missed the laughter in the corridors, spontaneous conversations, even the internal emails I used to roll my eyes at. Corporate camaraderie is something I had not realised I’d miss this much.
2. The Lifestyle Tug-of-War
Here’s the truth — I still wanted the perks of the corporate lifestyle. The money, the outfits, the events, the travel.
I did not adjust my spending immediately. I kept up appearances, trying to hold onto who I used to be. I used savings to go out, bought clothes I did not need, and ignored the new reality: there was no guaranteed income on the 20th of the month.
Despite having advised others to prepare for these rainy days, I wasn’t walking the talk — and the guilt was heavy. Was I a fraud?
3. The Weight of Loneliness
As my budget tightened, I started turning down invites. I told myself I was choosing to “focus on my business” — but honestly, I was retreating. I felt misunderstood, especially by friends and family who didn’t quite grasp the emotional toll of self-employment.
Most people in my circle were still in formal employment. Their reality was different. They couldn’t relate — and that made me feel even more isolated. I cried behind closed doors and smiled in public. After all, this is the life I chose, right?
4. Wrestling with Imposter Syndrome
Despite having a solid business plan, I was constantly second-guessing myself.
I questioned my pricing, my value, my capabilities. Every quote I sent out triggered anxiety. What if it’s too high? Too low? Can I really deliver? Do I even deserve this opportunity?
Worse still, I fell into the trap of comparison — measuring myself against others in completely different industries and stages of business. I hadn’t found my rhythm yet. My confidence wavered daily.
One Year Later: What Have I Learned?
It’s been 12 months of deep learning, unlearning, and growth. I’ve made mistakes. I’ve had moments of extreme doubt. I’ve felt sad, judged, and exhausted. But I’m still standing — and I’m learning to give myself grace.
In my next post, I’ll be sharing the coping mechanisms and strategies I’ve used (and still use) to navigate this new chapter — from therapy and mindset shifts to budgeting hacks and redefining success.
If you’re thinking about transitioning from corporate life, I hope this series helps you prepare — not just financially, but emotionally and mentally too.
Until next time,
Love, Light & Wellness
TKay
Comments 2