I Took a Ksh500k Loan to Start Butchery But It's Not Working, Should I Quit My Job to Give it My All? 

"I borrowed Ksh500,000 to start a butchery business in Ruiru. I have a full-time job in Ngara so this is a side hustle. Unfortunately, despite the promising returns I had calculated on paper, the business hasn’t picked up, and the loan repayments are becoming a burden. I believe the business has the potential to pay me more than I earn. Most of the issues are to do with my absence and I am not sure how to be more involved. I am torn between taking a 3-month break from my job to put my best foot in the business, or should I just sell the business and count my losses?" Patrick, Ruiru

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Starting a side hustle while maintaining a full-time job is a bold move, but it often comes with unique challenges — especially when the business struggles to take off. Let’s break down the options for someone grappling with the decision of whether to take a break from work to focus on their butchery business or to sell the business and cut their losses.
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1. Review the Financials 

The first and most crucial step is to conduct a thorough review of the business’s financial health. Are the sales covering operational costs such as rent, utilities, staff wages, and stock purchases? If not, identify the gaps. Is the pricing right? Are there unnecessary expenses? A clear financial snapshot will help you understand if the business has the potential for profitability or if the losses are unsustainable.

2. Consider Hiring a Manager

 Instead of taking a three-month break from your full-time job, consider hiring a reliable and experienced manager to oversee the daily operations of the butchery. With modern technology, you can monitor sales, expenses, and customer feedback remotely. A good manager will help ensure smooth operations while giving you the flexibility to continue earning from your main job. This approach also allows you to test whether the business can function independently, a key factor in determining its long-term sustainability.
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3. Evaluate Viability 

 Sell or Stay? After analyzing the financials and assessing the impact of hiring a manager, it’s time to make a tough call. If the numbers show that the business is fundamentally flawed — for example, if the location lacks sufficient foot traffic, operational costs far outweigh revenues, or competition is too stiff — selling the business might be the wisest option. Letting go sooner rather than later can prevent deeper financial strain and allow you to cut your losses.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on the business’s financial reality and your ability to manage it effectively. With clear financial insights and a strategic approach, you can confidently choose whether to push forward or pivot away. Remember, a business's potential is only as strong as its foundation — and honest evaluation is key.

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