4 Years In. The Truth About Leaving My 9 to 5 w/ Lauren Najar

Four years ago, I made the decision to leave my 9 to 5 and build my business full time. And while that decision changed everything, it didn’t happen the way I thought it would.In this episode, I’m reflecting on what it actually took to get there and what these last four years have really looked like. From starting with side hustles and trying to find a way out, to building a business while working full time, this was not a quick or straightforward path. It took years of figuring things out, making decisions without a clear plan, and learning how to trust myself along the way.I’m also sharing what no one really talks about after you leave your job. The freedom, yes, but also the pressure, the identity shifts, and the responsibility that comes with building something on your own. At the same time, this is a milestone I’m incredibly proud of. Four years later, I’m still here, still building, and still choosing this path.So if you’re thinking about leaving your 9 to 5 or wondering if it’s actually worth it, this episode will give you a real look at what that decision requires and what it can create.Chapters:01:00 Why leaving your job feels so far away02:30 Starting with side hustles and MLMs05:30 From blogging to social media work07:00 Hiring a coach and shifting direction09:00 Building a business while working full time11:30 The pressure of having a day job15:00 Getting a new job that changed everything17:30 When the business slowed down19:00 Rebuilding confidence with new offers20:30 COVID and unexpected business growth21:30 Starting an agency and increasing income24:00 Deciding to leave and making a plan26:00 Moving and lowering expenses28:00 The moment everything became real30:00 Why setting a date matters31:00 Life after leaving the 9 to 533:30 The hardest parts of entrepreneurship35:30 Why it is still worth it37:00 The real way to build confidenceUpcoming Events:Napa Retreat - October 5-8, 2026 - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/cetj223rsrGrowth & Connect Events - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/hb2a0mwbqwSave 25% with Flodesk - https://flodesk.com/c/OR8VKLLet’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.