Who Is Self-Employment Really For? 3 Values I See in My Clients Who Make the Leap

Ever notice how some people seem born to run their own business? There’s always a reason.

We could look at this topic from many different perspectives — years of experience, ability to accept risks, creativity, ideas, background, and so on. But this is not going to be that type of article. What if I told you that self-employment isn’t for risk-takers, but for value-driven people like you?

What I’m sharing here are my observations as a coach who believes that whatever you do, if it’s aligned with your values, it will feel like a smooth ride and aligned with your life’s purpose.

Because here’s the truth: just because you’re good at something, or capable of doing it, doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy it or feel fulfilled by it. Fulfillment comes only when what you do is deeply aligned with your values.

And over the years of doing deep value excavation with my clients, I’ve noticed a clear pattern: people who are drawn to self-employment share three core values.

Why I See It So Clearly

Here’s the thing: all of my clients experience a big breakthrough when they discover their values. Once they see them, they cannot unsee them.

And if you read my clients’ stories, you’ll notice something: almost every single one mentions value mining as one of the most powerful parts of our work together. And it makes me so happy, because this discovery is life-changing and lasting. It’s not a passing “aha” — it’s the kind of clarity that stays with you forever.

I don’t do this with a values list from the internet or a quick online test. I go deep with my clients. We do real excavation — soul-level reinvention and what I call true self-excavation. And usually, this breakthrough happens in the very first two sessions.

And through this, I noticed something striking: people who are meant for self-employment share three core values.

The 3 Values of People Meant for Self-Employment

1. Freedom

The first one is freedom. For some, they may call it independence, autonomy, or self-determination. Naming is always very individual — it depends on what lands with the client.

But underneath the words, the truth is the same: these people need freedom. They want to make their own decisions, follow their own vision, and hold the steering wheel of their life.

When they’re working for someone else, they often feel limited, trapped, or suffocated. There’s a deep sense of not having enough room to spread their wings. And no matter how good the job is on paper, without freedom, it eventually starts to feel like a cage.

2. Growth

The second value is growth. Some clients call it curiosity, others name it learning — but at its core, it’s the drive to expand.

These are people who light up when they’re exploring something new. They read, study, experiment, and constantly seek out fresh challenges. They often start out happy in their careers, but sooner or later they hit a ceiling. The learning stops, the challenge is gone — and suddenly they’re restless, frustrated, or deeply unsatisfied.

For them, self-employment becomes a natural fit because building a business is endless growth. There’s always something to learn, something to improve, something new to try. And that’s exactly what makes them thrive.

3. Community

The third value is community. Some call it togetherness, others impact, contribution, or belonging. The naming again is unique to each client — but the essence is the same.

These clients want their work to matter. They want to make a difference. Even when they’re excellent at their jobs, if the company or role they’re in doesn’t positively impact people, they feel an emptiness.

When they start their own endeavors, it’s often with the intention to give back, to support others, or to create something that uplifts their community. That sense of making a positive impact is what gives them real fulfillment.

A Small Personal Secret

As I analyzed this pattern, I realized something: the reason I make the biggest difference in these clients’ lives — and why I feel so deeply drawn to them — is because I share these three values myself.

For me, they’re called Freedom, Growth, and Community.

It’s no wonder the work feels so natural and rewarding. We’re aligned at the deepest level. If you feel freedom, growth, and community calling your name but aren’t sure how to act on it alone, I specialize in reinvention coaching. You can learn more about how I support career pivots and self-employment in my coaching offerings here.

So, Is This You?

If you’ve read this and thought, “That’s me” … if you feel a pull toward freedom, growth, and community … if people have told you, “You should start something of your own” but you don’t know when or what …

Let me tell you this: it’s coming.

If financing coaching feels overwhelming, don’t worry—you’re not alone. I put together practical options to afford coaching even on a tight budget; check them out here: Practical Ways to Afford Career Coaching: Investing in Your Future

If you’re currently unemployed but even quietly considering self-employment, don’t miss this: What is Gründungscoaching? A Simple Guide for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Germany. It breaks down how you can get professional support to test your idea and build a roadmap—often fully funded.

It may not be today. It may not even be this year. But if these values resonate with you at your core, self-employment will eventually find its way into your life.

Your Next Step

If you see yourself reflected in these values, it’s not a “one day” dream—it’s your path unfolding.
Ready to explore it together? Book a free call with me today — let’s map out how you can step toward self-employment with clarity and confidence.