There are a million articles out there about starting your own business. Some are super helpful, some are a little overwhelming - and everything in between! The resources are abundant! However, there are a few things I have learned during the last eight months that nobody told me before I quit my job to start my own business. I thought I'd share a little bit of insight from down here in the trenches. 

1. Know when to walk away. 

Some days, the creative juices just aren't flowing. Some days, you're going to be super antsy and unfocused. Know when to step away from the computer. Take a break. Go for a walk around the block. Do whatever you need to do to clear your ahead.

One of the perks of self employment is being able to work during your prime hours. If you're a night owl, don't feel like you have to be hustling at 6 a.m. If you're like me and you do your best work before the sun is up, don't feel guilty when your brain shuts down at 3 p.m. Find the rhythms that make the best use of your time and brain. 

2. Take advantage of the flexibility. 

You might not see a paycheck for a verryyyy long time. Enjoy the other, non-financial perks, of your new gig. You're also probably going to work some very long hours, grinding away until something only you can do is just perfect. When you have slow days or your mom is in town, enjoy being able to take a break. 

3. You might be tempted to punish yourself for "not having a job."

4. Slow down and celebrate the little things. 

5. Remember that money isn't everything.

PS: You probably already know this, but: you're going to make mistakes, critical feedback and want to quit. Don't quit! It's part of the process. You can do this. On those days, have this book handy. Read it, highlight it, read it again.