How many of us dream of one day running our own business? We fantasize about being our own boss, about making our own decisions and about building our businesses on our own terms. But usually don't think about the very real pressures that are included in running a small business. Few tasks, in reality, demand the long hours and determination that accompanies building a successful small business. Business Insider recently took a look at the negative impact that the stress of running a business can have on entrepreneurs. It's a scary story, whether you're starting up a traditional small business or an online tech-based one.
A sad ending
The Business Insider feature tells the tragic story of Ecomom, an online business focused on selling environmentally friendly products for children. Jody Sherman founded and ran the business, dedicating long hours to it. However, the business eventually began losing money. No one knows for certain why Sherman did it, but he ended up shooting himself. His business closed soon after his suicide, though it's back online now with a new owner.
High-pressure
The truth is, running a small business is a pressure-packed task. The hours are extremely long. The decisions you must make are all big ones. And even if you do everything right, there's no guarantee that your business will be successful. Most small businesses, in fact, fail in their first three years.
Riding the coaster
As the Business Insider story says, starting a small business is like riding a really violent roller coaster. Life becomes a series of high, highs -- Our business is open! -- and low, lows -- We lost how many dollars last quarter? This kind of emotional up-and-down isn't healthy. That's why not many are cut out to be the owner of a small business. It takes a certain temperament, confidence and a willingness to log long, long hours to succeed as a small business owner. To put it simply, it's a job for a risk-taker, not for the average person.