Why I don't work for myself anymore

Summary

In this video, the host discusses a comment from a previous video, reflecting on the nature of his work as a builder. He addresses the notion of being a 'glorified laborer' and his decision not to pursue self-employment or business education. The host emphasizes the importance of enjoying physical labor and the simplicity of working for someone else, valuing work-life balance over the stress of running a business. He also shares his perspective on the transient nature of work and the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life, inviting viewers to share their thoughts on the topic.

Takeaways

• 🔨 The speaker is currently working on an extension project and is waiting for additional steel materials to arrive.
• 📅 The steel materials are expected to arrive the next day, allowing the project to progress further.
• 🛠️ Today's tasks include minimal brickwork, backing up the block work, spreading stone, and receiving deliveries, making for a relaxed day.
• 💭 The speaker reflects on a comment from a previous video, which questioned why they stopped working for themselves and didn't pursue business education.
• 🏗️ The speaker identifies as a builder who enjoys physical labor and finds satisfaction in the hands-on work involved in construction.
• 🛑 The speaker chose not to work for themselves due to a lack of enjoyment and the stress associated with running a business.
• 💼 The speaker believes that being good at one thing does not necessarily translate to being good at another, such as business management.
• 💡 A key realization for the speaker was that money is not the ultimate goal, and they prioritize happiness and work-life balance over wealth accumulation.
• 👵 The speaker's grandmother's advice that 'money is borrowed time' influenced their perspective on the importance of a balanced life.
• 🏡 The speaker is content with their current job and appreciates the ability to 'switch off' from work after their shift ends.
• 👍 The speaker commends those who own businesses but acknowledges that it is not the path they wish to pursue due to their personal preferences and values.

Q & A

What is the main task the speaker has to do today?

The speaker has to pull some minimal brickwork, back it in with blockwork, spread some stone, and take some deliveries.

Why does the speaker describe their day as 'relaxing'?

The speaker describes their day as relaxing because they are not running around like a headless chicken as they usually do, and they are having a more chill and relaxed day.

What comment from a previous video prompted the speaker to discuss their career choices?

A comment suggesting that the speaker is a glorified laborer and questioning why they stopped working for themselves prompted the discussion.

What is the speaker's view on being a 'glorified laborer'?

The speaker acknowledges that they do a lot of physical labor as part of their job, such as taking down walls and filling skips, and they enjoy working physically hard.

Why did the speaker choose not to learn business and work for someone else instead?

The speaker chose not to learn business because they did not enjoy it and preferred an easy life without the stress of finding their own work.

What is the speaker's main motivation for their work?

The speaker is motivated by enjoying what they do, rather than just making money or running a business.

What was the speaker's experience with running their own business?

The speaker struggled with organizing pricing, jobs, and balancing work with subcontractors, and they did not enjoy the business aspect of their work.

How does the speaker feel about money and work-life balance?

The speaker values being present and happier at the end of the day over chasing money and stresses the importance of a good work-life balance.

What advice does the speaker give to those considering starting a bricklaying business?

The speaker advises doing research, finding a good client list, and partnering with builders who will use their services, but also warns that it's hard work and not everyone is motivated for it.

What is the speaker's current focus in life?

The speaker is focused on maintaining a decent work-life balance, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying his work without it consuming his life.

What is the speaker's plan for the future regarding his career?

The speaker does not see himself starting his own business again in the near future, as he prefers the stability and balance of working for someone else.