If You Hate Your Job, Listen to This Before You Quit
Ever feel like you’re stuck in a job that’s draining the life out of you? Maybe you dream of starting your own business but keep talking yourself out of it. You’re not alone.
In this episode of Shifting Perceptions Podcast, I sat down with Aaron Harper, the CEO of Rolling Suds, a national power-washing franchise, to talk about the reality of leaving the 9-to-5 grind and what it actually takes to build something of your own. Aaron didn’t take the traditional route to success—he made bold moves, took risks, and figured out how to create real freedom.
Aaron Harper acquired the brand in 2022 and took Rolling Suds from just one location to nearly 250 territories sold by the end of 2024. By this time next year, Harper expects to have 140 franchisees, 450 territories in around 35 states, and 200 trucks on the road.
If you’re feeling stuck, this conversation might just be the push you need.
Why Most People Stay Stuck (And How to Break Free)
Aaron has seen it time and time again: people stay stuck in jobs they hate because they’re afraid. Afraid of failing, afraid of losing security, afraid they’re not capable of more.
“The biggest thing holding people back isn’t their situation—it’s their mindset,” Aaron said.
If you’re waiting for the “perfect time” to start something new, you’ll be waiting forever. There is no perfect time. The people who succeed are the ones who start before they’re ready.
What It’s Really Like to Leave a Job and Start a Business
Everyone loves the idea of being their own boss, but few people talk about what really happens when you leave a stable job to build something of your own. Aaron shared some hard truths:
• You will doubt yourself. “There’s no safety net, and that’s terrifying—but also motivating.”
• You will have to work harder than ever. “Anyone who tells you entrepreneurship is easier than a 9-to-5 is lying to you.”
• You will make mistakes. “You have to be willing to fail, learn, and keep moving. That’s the only way forward.”
The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t? The ones who succeed keep going when it gets hard.
The #1 Skill You Need to Be Successful
If you think you need an MBA or a huge pile of cash to start a business, think again. According to Aaron, the most important skill you need is learning how to solve problems.
“The people who make it aren’t necessarily the smartest or most talented—they’re the ones who figure things out and don’t quit,” he said.
If you can stay adaptable, keep learning, and take action, you’re already ahead of most people.
Before You Quit Your Job, Ask Yourself This…
Feeling ready to take the leap? Before you do, Aaron suggests asking yourself these three critical questions:
1. Are you prepared for the uncertainty? Starting a business is unpredictable—do you have the resilience to push through the unknown?
2. Do you have a plan? You don’t need everything figured out, but having a strategy (and some savings) helps.
3. Are you willing to outwork everyone else? Success isn’t just about ideas—it’s about execution.
If your answer to these is yes, then maybe it’s time to stop waiting and start building.
Final Thoughts: Success is a Choice
Most people will never take the first step toward changing their life. They’ll keep making excuses, staying comfortable, and wondering “what if?” years from now. But if you’re reading this and you’re ready to take control, now is the time.
Aaron Harper didn’t wait for permission—he took the leap, figured things out, and built something bigger than himself. You can too.
Listen to the full episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for more insights from Aaron, and connect with him on Twitter (@aaronharperCEO).
If this episode hit home, let me know in the comments: What’s holding you back from making a change?
Please Support Our Sponsors
Thanks to our sponsors: Insta360 – Get a Free Accessory and save with this epic 360 degree camera! https://www.insta360.com/sal/x4?utm_term=INRR6JU or go to insta360.com and use code: INRR6JU
The DNA Company- Custom Genetic Tests: https://thednacompany.com/jayalders
Watch on YouTube
Connect with Jay Alders
- Jay Alders Website: jayalders.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/jayalders
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jayalders
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jayalders
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/jayalders
- Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/jayalders
Connect with The Shifting Perceptions Podcast:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shiftingperceptionspodcast
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftingperceptionspodcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShiftingPodcast
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shiftingperceptions?lang=en
Connect with Aaron Harper
- LinkedIn: Aaron Harper on LinkedIn
- • X (formerly Twitter): @AaronHarperCEO
- • Instagram: @aarontharper
- Rolling Suds:
- • Official Website: Rolling Suds Power Washing
- • Franchise Information: Rolling Suds Franchise
- • Instagram: @rollingsuds
- • YouTube: Rolling Suds YouTube Channel
* Contains Affiliate Links
