Cori Ann Russell Reveals the Dark Side of Being Your Own Boss

Being your own boss sounds like a dream. You set your own schedule, make your own decisions, and build something from the ground up. But what many people don’t see is the hidden struggles that come with entrepreneurship. Dr. Cori Ann Russell, founder of Finish Strong CPR, knows this all too well. With over 20 years of experience in empowering communities through life-saving skills and estate planning services, she has faced the harsh realities of running a business firsthand.

The Pressure of Responsibility

One of the biggest challenges of being your own boss is the weight of responsibility. When you work for someone else, you have a clear job description, and your role is well-defined. But as a business owner, everything falls on you.

Cori Ann Russell explains, “There’s no safety net. If something goes wrong, it’s on you to fix it. If a client is unhappy, you have to handle it. If bills pile up, you have to figure out how to pay them.” The constant pressure can be overwhelming, and many entrepreneurs find themselves working longer hours than they ever did in a traditional job.

Financial Uncertainty

Another tough reality is financial instability. Unlike a steady paycheck, running a business means income can fluctuate wildly. Some months bring in great revenue, while others can be slow, leaving you stressed about making ends meet.

Russell points out, “No one tells you that even when you’re successful, you can still feel financially insecure. You might have a great month, but what about the next one? You always have to think ahead.” This uncertainty requires strong financial planning and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.

Work-Life Balance Challenges

Many people dream of entrepreneurship for the flexibility it offers. However, the truth is that business owners often struggle to step away from work. There’s always an email to answer, a call to return, or a problem to solve.

Russell admits, “I thought I’d have more freedom, but in reality, I’m always thinking about the business. It’s hard to shut it off.” Without clear boundaries, business owners can find themselves burned out, exhausted, and unable to enjoy the personal life they were hoping for.

Loneliness and Isolation

Another aspect of being your own boss that people rarely talk about is the loneliness. In a traditional workplace, you have colleagues to collaborate with, bounce ideas off, and rely on for support. But when you’re running a business, much of the decision-making and problem-solving falls on you alone.

“It can feel isolating,” Russell shares. “When things get tough, there’s no boss or manager to turn to. You have to make the hard decisions on your own.” Finding a support system, such as a mentor or a network of fellow entrepreneurs, can be crucial in navigating these challenges.

Handling Setbacks and Failures

Every business faces setbacks, whether it’s losing a big client, dealing with unexpected expenses, or struggling with competition. The reality is that failure is part of the journey, but that doesn’t make it any easier.

Russell believes resilience is key. “There have been moments when I’ve doubted myself, wondering if I made the right choice. But learning to push through and adapt is what makes a strong business owner.” Having a growth mindset and being willing to learn from mistakes can help entrepreneurs overcome these difficult moments.

The Reward of Making an Impact

Despite these struggles, Russell remains passionate about what she does. Her work at Finish Strong CPR allows her to empower others with life-saving skills and estate planning knowledge. She acknowledges that while being your own boss is tough, the ability to make a real difference makes it all worthwhile.

“Yes, there are challenges, but there’s also an incredible sense of fulfillment,” she says. “I know that what I do matters, and that keeps me going.”

Final Thoughts

Being your own boss isn’t just about freedom and financial success—it comes with serious challenges that require resilience, discipline, and a strong support system. Cori Ann Russell’s journey proves that while entrepreneurship isn’t easy, it can be incredibly rewarding when you’re passionate about your mission.

If you’re considering starting your own business, go in with open eyes. Understand that the road will be difficult, but with persistence and a clear purpose, you can navigate the challenges and build something meaningful.