For many years, the narrative surrounding entrepreneurship has been about stepping up and doing whatever it takes to achieve your goals. However, some business owners are now stepping back from this idea, launching a new trend known as soft entrepreneurship.
Dia Aliaga is a freelancer, digital entrepreneur, and YouTuber who has become one of the leading proponents of ergonomic entrepreneurship. she She explained her position in a recent video“Traditional hard entrepreneurship says: ‘Do more, do more at any cost, more is always better, do more, be more, do more, you’re a machine.’ It’s ruined my life, and it’s not very fun. So last year I made the switch from “Hard entrepreneurship to soft entrepreneurship and it changed my whole life.”
Aliaga’s business journey began with a traditional hustle mentality. But this led to stress, self-doubt and problems with employees. Eventually, her mental health suffered so badly that she decided to change the way she operated her business. And thus her rules for convenient entrepreneurship were born.
Its rules include:
- No shame policy: She does not shame herself or others for not meeting industry or societal expectations, such as waking up early or starting work at a certain time.
- Clarity about improvement: She thinks about what she’s already improving, including freedom and time rather than just money.
- Limitations: She thinks about what is “enough” to live a happy, carefree life in terms of money, energy, and goals, rather than always striving for more.
- Life > Work: She values her life more than her work and does not derive her personal value from work accomplishments.
Now, Aliaga runs her business with these guidelines, prioritizing her happiness and mental health. She still manages to run a six-figure business while enjoying the rest of her life.
Of course, entrepreneurial goals and lifestyles vary greatly. So this exact formula may not suit everyone. But this laid-back entrepreneurial idea may appeal to those who feel they need more space in their workday to combat burnout and enjoy their lives and businesses again.
Image: Envato
