As November kicks off National Entrepreneurship Month, a growing number of senior executives are choosing to walk away from high-paying jobs and corporate stability to build something of their own. Far from simply being driven by burnout, many seasoned professionals are seeking a sense of purpose and fulfillment that their current roles aren’t providing. A new generation of entrepreneurs is emerging—driven by values, personal meaning, and the desire to create a work environment that’s both productive and aligned with their values.
According to A.J. Mizes, CEO & Founder of The Human Reach, the first step toward successful entrepreneurship begins with a deep look inward. “The first step to taking that big leap into starting your own business is to really understand why you are doing this in the first place. Are you looking to do something you’re passionate about? What about that toxic work environment that you just can’t stand anymore? Are you burnt out and hoping for a more sustainable schedule?” he says. Mizes believes that knowing the true motivation behind the decision will help future business owners build the kind of company they want to work in, rather than simply escaping what they don’t.
For many high-achieving professionals, the transition from corporate life to self-employment isn’t about abandoning the stability or benefits that come with a top job. It’s about shifting focus to personal values and life goals. For example, leaders who have spent years climbing the corporate ladder may begin to ask questions like, “Is this all there is?” or “Am I truly fulfilled by what I’m doing?” These kinds of questions have only intensified in recent years as executives see colleagues or industry peers make the shift into entrepreneurship.
From Boardrooms to Business Ownership
Executives considering entrepreneurship often grapple with self-doubt, worrying that they lack the specific skills needed to run a business. But Mizes emphasizes that many of the skills they’ve honed over years in corporate roles—strategic planning, team leadership, project management—are exactly the tools they’ll need to thrive as business owners.
“Don’t sell yourself short,” says Mizes. “Just because building a business may be new for you, doesn’t mean you don’t have the tools in your toolbox already. Whenever we encounter something tough, think about yourself as a leader, a listener, and a hard worker. Combine that with your experience in the corporate world and you will be able to solve the puzzle of being an entrepreneur.”
The “toolbox” analogy is key for former executives, who are more equipped than they might initially believe. Corporate experience often involves managing budgets, solving complex challenges, making high-stakes decisions, and working within and leading teams—skills that translate seamlessly into the entrepreneurial world. While running a business presents new challenges, former corporate leaders already possess the strategic mindset needed to face the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Navigating the Challenges
While the idea of working for oneself and creating a new legacy is exhilarating, starting a business is rarely a straightforward path. There are risks, long hours, and moments of self-doubt that can make the transition feel daunting. Mizes doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges, noting that entrepreneurship is a journey filled with tests and setbacks that will inevitably make one question the decision. But he insists that resilience and trust in one’s abilities are the most important factors in getting through tough times.
“There will definitely be obstacles along the way that make you think, ‘What the heck am I doing with my life?’” he acknowledges. “But trust in yourself and your abilities, push through the ‘hard stuff,’ and you’ll be just fine.”
Mizes advises entrepreneurs to “run toward something, not just away from something they don’t enjoy.” In other words, the best business ideas and initiatives are those that come from a place of passion and excitement rather than dissatisfaction alone. Pursuing entrepreneurship without clarity can lead to burnout and frustration. But for those who identify their “why” and work toward a goal that excites them, the journey can be transformative.
Taking the Leap This National Entrepreneurship Month
If the pull toward entrepreneurship resonates, National Entrepreneurship Month is the perfect time to start making moves toward that goal. The road to self-employment is challenging, but for those who feel compelled to make an impact on their own terms, it can also be highly rewarding.
Whether you’re motivated by a passion project, a desire to escape a toxic workplace, or the hope of creating a sustainable work-life balance, the key is to trust the skills and experience you’ve built in your corporate career. Now, you can channel those tools into building something meaningful, personal, and entirely your own.
As Mizes puts it, “Entrepreneurship isn’t about perfection; it’s about taking bold steps forward. If you feel ready to start, remember—you’ve already got the foundation. Now is the time to act.”
For executives feeling unfulfilled in their current roles, this November might just be the ideal moment to step away from the boardroom and pursue a new path. Whether you’re ready now or just curious, this National Entrepreneurship Month is a reminder that it’s never too late to chase something more meaningful.