One might assume that Rebel U is in the former camp i.e. dive right in. But (funnily enough) we’re more favour of the latter camp, recommending making the requisite preparations (i.e. REBELLION) and easing into independence 6-12 months before your intended “departure date”. If you’ve spent your career in the employ of others, being a good little company person, going straight for all-in independence without acclimatising can be a shock; it is unfamiliar territory after all. While REBELLIONS are designed to be elegant side-steps, allowing you to slip into something comfortable and inherently familiar, your mindset (and not only your own, but also your family's and partner’s mindset) must follow. If you’ve been “brought up” in a corporate environment, perhaps over 10, 20 or 30 years, this mindset shift can take time.

Now, we’re not too fond of the common parlance terms “side hustle” or “side gig”. As terms they somehow deride and cheapen the idea of going after your own thing with your own brand and biz, irrespective if on the side or not. This said, they do capture the essence of independent moonlighting or extracurricular self-work. Once your platform for independence is in place, take it for a spin on evenings and weekends, starting slow, (hopefully) picking up some early clients and tentatively establishing your brand. Provided there are no contractual obstacles (such as a no-compete clause), hindering you from having a foot in both worlds, the risk is minimal. You can gain independent confidence while on a payroll and both have your cake and eat it at the same time … for a while. 

Be strategic about timing your leap and don't postpone indefinitely. Having a firm date – your personal independence day – for when your own thing becomes your only thing is crucial. Balancing the demands and frustrations of a “real job” and tending to your own brand and business at the same time is hard. Too much juggling will inevitably lead to shoddy work all-around and potential burnout. Three to six months should be sufficient to get you, your brand and your business warmed up for full commitment and primetime. Also, during this hybrid phase, ensure to get a back-up fund in place, sufficient to last you 6-months of living expenses … Just in case and for peace of mind. 

If you already have a back-up fund in place, you’re feeling confident – platform for independence at the ready – and simply can’t wait to turn your back on corporate, going all-in straight out of the gate is of course a totally viable option. This approach is a tad more “rebel”, risky and/or risqué but provides freedom and focus in the early launch phase. You can fully devote yourself to service delivery excellence, marketing, SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) building, brand building and forming client partnerships. If this “dive right in” approach is more your vibe – kudos. 

Ultimately, the best path depends on your mindset, financial needs, risk tolerance, and brand and business model. But, as previously stated, Mr EBEL’s general recommendation remains: don’t go in hot; go in chill, well-prepared and cool as a cucumber.