My boss expects me to be a jack of all trades. That's usually fun, but he holds me responsible for the success of projects I'm clearly unqualified for. Conversely, he forces me to do a lot of mindless work when I'd rather be writing interesting code.
The hours suck. Most of my awake time is spent at work, and I don't get paid overtime.
I don't get benefits. I've got to pay out of pocket for health and dental, which isn't cheap.
The work is gratifying (and there's no shortage of it) but it's a hard slog. I'd say the only big perk is that I can pretty much take as much vacation as I'd like. (Though it is non-paid.)
Is it worth it? At the moment, no... but I do get equity in the business and I hope the investment will pay off in the future.
Man cheer up a bit - it's a matter of outlook IMHO. I'm my own boss so I can sympathize.
Given that you own a large chunk of the equity (100%?) it is all worth it. When the business grows and you start hiring, you'll always remember how tough the menial work is and you'll have even more respect for the people you hire to do the work. I've read stories of Fortune 500 CEOs actually doing warehouse night shifts so that they learn how the least paid people in their companies work.
Also, non-paid vacation is paid for by the long hours you put in, and necessary for you to continue doing the long hours.
Finally, can you outsource some of the mindless work? I got an accountant. Also, can your significant other help with some things?
Man cheer up a bit - it's a matter of outlook IMHO.
Right. What I described is my reality, not how I feel day-to-day. That said, right now it still isn't worth it.
Also, non-paid vacation is paid for by the long hours you put in, and necessary for you to continue doing the long hours. Finally, can you outsource some of the mindless work?
I make only enough to cover living expenses, so vacation and outsourcing both would require debt.
Also, can your significant other help with some things?
No significant other. I thought you were trying to cheer me up! ;)
The hours suck. Most of my awake time is spent at work, and I don't get paid overtime.
I don't get benefits. I've got to pay out of pocket for health and dental, which isn't cheap.
The work is gratifying (and there's no shortage of it) but it's a hard slog. I'd say the only big perk is that I can pretty much take as much vacation as I'd like. (Though it is non-paid.)
Is it worth it? At the moment, no... but I do get equity in the business and I hope the investment will pay off in the future.
I'm my own boss.