I don’t really have a question; just looking to hear from other’s who’ve gone through this. I started a business 5 years ago and, like most other new business owners, I put everything I had into it. I worked night and day and sacrificed all of my personal life. I’ve managed to build up a stable income, but it’s significantly less than I’d make if I just got a job. Last year I paid myself $74k before tax, which is pretty low for an engineer, especially in a HCoL area. My total assets in the company are around $130k, but the business is just breaking even every month – frequently dipping into the line of credit to pay expenses like payroll.

I went on a short vacation recently because I was totally burnt out, and I’ve been trying to work no more than 50 hours a week, so I could spend more time with my family. Instead of rejuvenating me, it’s made me start resenting my business more. I remembered what life could be like. I’m tired of the stress. I’m tired of nagging customers to pay. I’m not even interested in the work anymore – something I used to love.

I want to just sell everything and get some labour job where I can shut my brain off, and come home and drink a bear and watch reruns of Star Trek. I feel I can’t though because I’ve got long-term contracts that need me, and new projects that are just starting, and I can’t let my customers down.

I feel like I need a business partner to help share the load, but I’ve heard so many horror stories I’m not sure that a wise option, nor do I know anyone who would be suitable. Any words of encouragement or advice would be greatly appreciated. I’m sure many of you have been here. How did you get through it?