Hey Mason,

Thanks for reaching out and sharing your question with me. The decision to quit your job and pursue starting a business or doing it on the side is a big one, and there are a few factors to consider before making your choice. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you navigate this decision:

1. Define your goals: Start by clarifying what you hope to achieve with your business. Do you want it to be a side hustle for extra income, or do you have ambitions of growing it into a full-time venture? Understanding your long-term goals will help guide your decision.
2. Evaluate your financial situation: Assess your current financial stability and determine if you have enough savings to sustain yourself during the early stages of your business. If you’re not ready to take on the financial risk of quitting your job, starting your business on the side could be a more prudent approach.
3. Create a timeline: If you decide to pursue your business on the side, set a realistic timeline for yourself. Determine how many hours you can commit each week and create a schedule that allows you to balance your job and entrepreneurial pursuits effectively.
4. Develop a business plan: Regardless of whether you pursue your business full-time or on the side, having a solid business plan is crucial. Outline your target market, competitive landscape, revenue streams, and marketing strategies. This will help you stay focused and organized as you progress.
5. Seek mentorship: Surround yourself with mentors who have experience in the industry you want to enter. This could be through networking, attending industry events, or even reaching out to experts in the field. Learning from others who have successfully navigated similar paths can provide invaluable guidance and advice.
6. Validate your idea: Before diving in headfirst, validate your business idea to ensure there is a market demand for your product or service. Conduct market research, seek feedback from potential customers, and iterate your idea accordingly. Validating your idea early on will save you time and resources in the long run.
7. Start taking action: Whether you choose to quit your job or pursue your business on the side, the key is to start taking action. Break your goals down into small, manageable tasks and tackle them one by one. Consistent progress, even if it’s just a few hours a week, will compound over time.

   As for resources, here are a few recommendations to help you further explore the topic of starting a business:

   • "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Tim Ferriss: This book provides valuable insights into lifestyle design and offers strategies for escaping the 9-5 grind.
   • "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries: A must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs, this book explores the concept of validated learning and how to build a business through iterative experimentation.
   • "The Tim Ferriss Show" (podcast): My podcast features interviews with successful entrepreneurs and business leaders who share their insights and strategies for building successful businesses.

     Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of quitting your job or pursuing your business on the side. It ultimately depends on your specific circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance. Take the time to weigh your options, evaluate your situation, and trust your instincts.

     Best of luck on your entrepreneurial journey!

     Tim