Go to Work Because You Want To, Not Because You Have To

The Quote That Changed Everything

One of my favorite quotes is by Henry Ford:

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you're right.”

Every time I hear it, it resonates deeply. It’s a reminder that our beliefs shape our reality.

I’ve always wanted to have a quote that people associate with me—something that could inspire others the way Ford’s words have inspired me. It may not be as profound, but it’s something I truly believe in:

“Go to work because you want to, not because you have to.”

The Trap of Self-Employment

We start businesses because we’re tired of working for someone else. We want more time, more control, and more freedom.

But what happens?

We don’t actually create freedom—we create another job. A job where:

• We work crazy hours.

• We have no paid time off.

• We have no benefits.

• We become the worst boss we’ve ever had.

Instead of escaping the 9-to-5, we build a 24/7 trap.

And the root cause of this? Profitability.

Profitability is the Key to Freedom

Most business owners struggle because they’re not making enough money to grow. Without profit, they can’t:

• Hire great team members.

• Invest in better products and services.

• Improve their brand and marketing.

• Take time off without the business collapsing.

So, how do you fix this?

Reverse Engineering Your Dream Business

The first step is to define your dream business. Take a moment to imagine it:

• Who is doing the installs?

• Who is handling sales and customer service?

• How many trucks do you have?

• What does your brand look like?

• How do your clients feel after working with you?

• How much revenue and profit are you making?

• What is YOUR role in the business?

• How many hours are you working each week?

• How much vacation do you take each year?

• How does your relationship with your family look?

Most people don’t truly know what they want. But when you define it, you can start making it a reality.

The Pricing Shift That Changes Everything

If you’re thinking, I can’t afford all of that right now, you’re right—with your current pricing.

And that’s exactly why you need to price your services like the business you want to be, not the business you are today.

If you keep pricing based on where you are now, you’ll stay stuck. But if you price based on the business you want to build, you’ll create the resources to make it happen.

Start Building Your Dream Business Today

1. Calculate what your dream business costs. Factor in future salaries, vehicles, equipment, office space, and everything you need.

2. Adjust your pricing accordingly. Charge based on where you’re going, not where you are.

3. Commit to the vision. Your future self will thank you.

One day, you’ll wake up, step into your business, and realize—you’re going to work because you want to, not because you have to.

And that’s real freedom.

-Ryan Lee

# Entrepreneurship, business growth, financial freedom, profitability, self-employment, pricing strategy, dream business, time freedom, business mindset, work-life balance #