Erlina Sidik - Leadership Coach, Trainer and Facilitator

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Low Key Perks of Leaving Corporate

Simon Middleton

I often get asked about what it's like to live an “alternative” life. 

Honestly I’ve always thought of myself as the typical corporate employee but after making the transition to a coach-preneur, I can’t imagine going back to that life again. Working for yourself is not for everyone, but if you’re curious and find yourself tinkering with the idea of making a career switch, here are the low-key things I love the most about being a coach-preneur and working (mostly) from home:

#1 I don’t need to be a “Weekend Warrior”

In the traditional 9-5 grind, my evenings and weekends were usually crammed with social commitments, chores, and errands, leaving me drained and burnt out. Now I can integrate essential tasks like errands, exercise, and self-care into my work week and truly relax and recharge on the weekends.

#2 I get 8 hours of sleep daily (and a post lunch nap)

I used to get by with 6 - 7 hours of sleep but now I get 8 hours of sleep consistently. It’s incredible how sleep affects our mood and productivity - I wake up feeling refreshed, look forward to the day and no longer need lie-ins on the weekends. I’m pretty sluggish after lunch so I incorporate a nap to keep my energy levels and productivity high for the rest of the afternoon. 

#3 I’m created my own version of the 5am club

I’ve always aspired to be part of the 5am club but the 20/20/20 method always felt too rushed for me. I enjoy slow morning routines but who’s got time for that if you have to start work at 9am? Having good sleep habits have allowed me to wake up at 5am and enjoy a ridiculously long morning routine that includes going to an exercise class, relishing a hearty breakfast, sipping my coffee, and easing into my workday peacefully.  

#4 I work when I am most productive

One of the things I value most is the freedom to choose when and how I work. I don’t draw a strict boundary between weekdays and weekends and instead choose to work during my peak productivity hours. To compensate, I take longer mid day breaks when I’m experiencing an energy slump or wrap up my work day early to catch the sunset at the beach.

#5 I feel motivated to work 

Making a career change has been difficult but coaching has allowed me to feel more aligned with my goals, strengths and values. This sense of alignment creates an unparalleled sense of motivation for my work. You can say I found my ikigai, my purpose, which keeps me going everyday and pushes me to grow and not settle. 

These benefits are low key but are the main reasons why I love my current lifestyle. 

Everyone is different, so share in the comments below what you

  • Love most about about your current life

  • Would like to have more of in your life

  • Want to let go of 

USEFUL RESOURCES