The Case for Building a Business on the Side, According to Justin Welsh

In a recent LinkedIn post, Justin Welsh discusses a common misconception surrounding entrepreneurship: the idea that one must quit their stable job to pursue a business venture. Welsh argues that this “dramatic exit” approach is often ill-advised, advocating instead for a more measured, side-hustle strategy.

Challenging the “Leap First” Mentality

Welsh directly challenges the popular narrative that encourages individuals to “go all in” and “burn the boats” before even launching a business. He suggests this is “terrible advice” for most aspiring entrepreneurs. Instead, he proposes a path that leverages the security of current employment to fund future freedom.

“Don’t quit your job to start a business. Keep your job and build on the side.”

According to Welsh, the key is to find a dedicated block of time each day – specifically suggesting 60 minutes – to work on the business. This approach allows individuals to use their existing income as investment capital, providing a financial safety net while testing business ideas and building a customer base.

The Advantages of a “9-5” Funding Model

Welsh highlights several benefits of maintaining a day job while building a business. He posits that the steady paycheck not only covers living expenses but also enables more strategic risk-taking. Furthermore, the inherent stability of employment can reduce the pressure to succeed immediately, allowing for a more focused and deliberate development process.

He emphasizes his personal experience, stating:

“I didn’t quit and then figure it out. I built for months before I left. Tested my offer. Got customers. Proved the model worked. Then I quit. With revenue. With momentum. With confidence.”

This methodical approach, Welsh argues, significantly de-risks the entrepreneurial journey. It shifts the focus from a high-stakes gamble to a calculated, phased transition.

The “Unsexy” Path to Success

The author acknowledges that building a business on the side might not possess the same allure as a dramatic, immediate departure from employment. However, he asserts that this “unsexy” method is precisely how the majority of successful one-person businesses are actually founded.

Focusing on Consistent Effort

Welsh underscores the power of consistent, focused effort over time. He reiterates that the foundation for many successful ventures is laid not through grand gestures, but through dedicated daily work.

“Building on the side isn’t sexy. But it’s how most successful one-person businesses actually start. Not with some dramatic exit. With 60 focused minutes a day!”

He concludes by promoting his “Creator MBA” program, framing it as a comprehensive guide for those looking to implement this side-building strategy, detailing how to grow an audience, launch an offer, and eventually replace their income, all while maintaining their current employment during the initial phases.