The Rut...

What is the rut?  The rut is a period of time that everyone encounters at one point or another. It is a time of deep thought, reflection, confusion and eventually decision.  In my experience it mainly happens to younger women (25 to 35 year range) with young pre-school aged children. This rut that I am referring to is the entrepreneurial rut.

Your once beloved hobby, all of a sudden becomes a viable business that requires time, dedication and decision.  You have deadlines to meet and people to please.  You have to decide whether you make a real go out of it, or you take a step back and put your dream on hold.  There are many things to factor into the equation and the main source of turmoil is the fear of regret. If I go on will my family suffer?  If I stop will I regret not attempting it?  This is only a decision each person can decide for themselves, however it can be very complicated.

So what can a person do... ?

If you do not have bills to pay (rent, employees, etc) I beg you to take a break before putting the whole thing on the back burner.  If you are like me, you have spent countless hours building and nurturing your little company as if it were one of your children.  There is nothing wrong with  taking a break, whether it be a few weeks or a few months.  Let your customers know, so they can be prepared and hang up the hat for awhile. This is the only way you'll really know if you can live without it peacefully.  If by the end of your break, you find that you were more content without it, then so be it.  If by the end you cannot wait to get back into it, then I think you have your answer as well.

Just remember, all business women go through this.  It's a scary thing and life altering decision, either way you look at it.  And to be honest, it will most likely happen a few times.  When it does, take deep breaths, plan a holiday and the answer will come to you :)