Why Entrepreneurship Isn’t for Everyone: Insights from a 29-Year-Old Small Business Owner on Overcoming Professional Loneliness and Challenges

Jack Schrupp took a leap from teaching to entrepreneurship by starting his own protein powder company, Drink Wholesome. What began as a side project to help his own dietary needs turned into a successful business that made seven figures in 2024.

Initially, Schrupp wanted to be a teacher and eventually an administrator. “I dreamed of leading a school,” he shared. But as his protein powder gained popularity, he found it hard to balance teaching, coaching, and running a growing business.

In college, Jack started making his own protein powder when he couldn’t find a product that worked for his sensitive stomach. He experimented with recipes on a mini-fridge in his dorm and later partnered with a granola company to produce it in larger batches. His first inventory came with a hefty cost of $20,000, but it sold out quickly.

As Drink Wholesome expanded, so did Schrupp’s stress. “I felt stretched thin and worried I wasn’t doing my best,” he reflected. At 27, he faced a tough choice: stick with teaching or commit fully to his business. He chose the latter, leaving teaching at the end of the 2023 school year, though he still wonders if it was the right move.

Today, Schrupp lives and works in Hanover, with just one employee—his sister, who works remotely. Although he appreciates the relaxed atmosphere, he often feels lonely in this new chapter. “It’s a different world from teaching. I miss the community,” he admitted.

Being an entrepreneur is isolating. Schrupp explained, “You might feel like you’re in this alone, facing unique challenges without a roadmap.” He has learned that the freedom of running his business also means setting boundaries is difficult. “It’s easy to work all day, every day,” he said. The ongoing pressure to grow his business can feel overwhelming.

Despite these challenges, Schrupp values the independence he now enjoys. “I can’t imagine going back to a traditional job. I have almost total freedom,” he stated. He’s dedicated to improving his brand and ensuring it remains a valuable resource for customers. “What we offer really helps people,” he noted, reflecting on his commitment to health and well-being.

As he looks to the future, Schrupp stresses the importance of evaluating his relationship with the business. “If I’m not happy, the business won’t thrive either,” he explained. Balancing ambition with personal fulfillment is essential. “There’s no guide to entrepreneurship. It’s about learning what works for you,” he concluded.

Source link