The internet loves a good “quit your 9-to-5 and chase your dreams” narrative, but Codie Sanchez, an entrepreneur and investor, offers a more grounded perspective. In her viral tweet, she emphasizes:
“Please don’t quit your job and ‘go all in.’ Much easier to work long days and nights until you’re sure your plan works and starts to make money.”
This advice is a refreshing counter to the often-romanticised notion of abandoning stability for unproven ventures. Let’s unpack why your day job might just be the hero of your entrepreneurial journey.
1. Your Day Job is Your Biggest Ally
Far from being an obstacle, your day job can be a powerful enabler of your dreams. It provides the financial stability to fund your side hustle without plunging into debt or stress. Whether it’s the paycheck that helps cover expenses or the insurance that offers peace of mind, the steady revenue stream gives you a solid foundation to take calculated risks.
2. Your Employer Could Be Your First Client
If your dream is aligned with the skills you’re honing at your day job, consider the potential for collaboration. Many professionals transition from employees to consultants, turning their employer into their first (and often biggest) client. This strategy allows you to maintain a steady income while building your business on the side.
3. Don’t Slack on the Job That Funds Your Dream
It’s tempting to check out mentally from your 9-to-5 while focusing on your side project. But remember, your current role deserves respect—not only because it’s paying the bills but because it’s a training ground for discipline, problem-solving, and time management. Slacking off can burn bridges and hurt your reputation, which might come back to haunt you.
4. Steady Revenue Buys You Freedom
Having a consistent income lets you test your business idea without pressure. Entrepreneurship is inherently risky, and knowing you have a fallback reduces the temptation to make desperate decisions. Stability allows you to think long-term, whether it’s investing in growth or navigating early setbacks.
5. Validate Your Idea Before Leaping
Codie’s advice highlights the importance of proof of concept. Before leaving the security of a job, validate your idea. Does your product or service have market demand? Are you generating consistent revenue? If the answer is no, it’s not time to quit yet.
6. Working Hard Now Sets You Up for Success Later
Building a side hustle while managing a full-time job isn’t easy—it requires long hours, sacrifice, and relentless dedication. However, as Codie notes, this dual effort is far less risky than diving headfirst into the unknown. Once your side hustle gains traction and financial viability, you can transition with confidence.
In a world that often glamorises bold leaps, Codie Sanchez’s advice is a reminder that smart, calculated moves can lead to sustainable success. Don’t scorn your day job; use it as a tool to fund and shape your dreams.
So, before you pen your resignation letter, ask yourself: Have you done the groundwork to ensure your dream is more than just a leap of faith?
As Codie wisely puts it, build in the shadows, work the long nights, and only leap when your plan is ready to soar.
Featured Image Credits – https://x.com/Codie_Sanchez/photo
