30-Year-Old Quits Job to Pursue Side Hustle Full-Time and Reduces Salary: How She Became Her Own Boss
Source: CNBC - Anna-Marie Ortiz Took a Pay Cut to Work for Herself, Doesn’t Regret It
Leaving a Secure Job for Entrepreneurship
- Anna-Marie Ortiz, 30, transitioned from a $60,000 job at a fintech startup to pursue her dream of owning a cleaning business.
- She utilized her last $2,000 in savings to start Cool Aunt Cleaners in July 2023, moving to full-time operation by November.
Challenges and Rewards of Being Your Own Boss
- Ortiz initially faced a significant salary reduction, earning about $29,000 a year, but felt empowered by the flexibility and autonomy of entrepreneurship.
- She values the opportunity to create a work environment that aligns with her values.
Lessons from Previous Ventures
- Prior to Cool Aunt Cleaners, Ortiz launched a plant store which provided her with critical business skills despite its closure.
- Choosing a cleaning service offered lower startup costs and the potential for consistent demand.
Business Growth and Future Aspirations
- In its early stages, Cool Aunt Cleaners earned $2,600 in its first month, which has since increased to around $10,000 per month in 2024.
- Ortiz hired four employees early on but decided to streamline operations to maintain quality and control as she scaled back to working solo.
- Currently, she manages about 15 to 20 recurring clients and is setting her sights on expanding the business further.
The Long-Term Vision
- Ortiz believes in the importance of having a long-term vision for her business, viewing it as an investment rather than a quick result.
- She advocates for breaking away from the traditional 9-to-5 mindset to achieve personal fulfillment through entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
- Despite the risks and initial financial strain, Ortiz finds satisfaction in building her business and prioritizing independence over conventional job security.
