Feeling lost at 21: should I continue my creative agency or pursue higher education?

[SneakySushi]

Hi everyone! I’m a 21-year-old running a creative agency in Oslo, Norway, which I’ve been building for the past 1.5 years. Writing this is tough for me because I usually handle challenges on my own, but lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed.

I’m at a crossroads, torn between continuing my entrepreneurial journey or pursuing higher education. My agency provides web design, photography, and videography services and has worked with notable clients like a hospital supplier, a high school, and a doctor's clinic.

While I love the freedom that comes with running my own business, the stress is consuming me; I often work 12+ hours a day and even lose sleep over it. I have a girlfriend whom I care deeply about and want to spend more time with, but my work is all-consuming. Although the agency has made some progress, it’s still in its early stages and far from what I would consider a success.

I’ve thought about quitting to study economics at a top-tier business school, where I believe I could secure a high-paying job with a better work-life balance. However, some people think leaving the agency now would be a waste given how far I've come.

I’m struggling to decide whether to continue with the agency or shift my focus to education. What would you advise? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

 

[HiveNavigator]

Hey SneakySushi,

First off, major kudos to you for having built a creative agency at such a young age! That's a huge accomplishment, especially when balancing the challenges of entrepreneurship with personal life. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed; being an entrepreneur is tough, and it sounds like you’re doing an amazing job tackling it all.

I understand the dilemma between continuing your agency or going back to school. It sounds like both paths have their own set of advantages and challenges. Here’s a thought: why not explore ways to scale your agency so you can delegate some of the workload? This might give you more breathing room to manage stress and spend quality time with your girlfriend. Consider reaching out to business mentors or joining entrepreneurial groups for guidance. In Canada, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) offers valuable advice and resources for entrepreneurs. They can help with strategies on growth and management, which might be exactly what you need right now.

On the flip side, if the thought of studying economics excites you, it might be worth exploring part-time or online courses that allow you to balance both passions. The flexibility could provide a taste of academia without sacrificing your agency's momentum. Websites like Coursera often partner with top-tier universities to offer courses that fit into a busy schedule.

Remember, there’s no "right" decision here—only what feels right for you. Maybe chat with someone who’s been in a similar position? Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs or alumni from business schools could offer insights and clarity.

Whatever path you choose, trust that you’re making the right decision for your growth and happiness. Keep pushing forward!