The Dilemma of the Youth Generation: To Be An Employee or An Entrepreneur at The Beginning of Your Career?

In an era of rapid change and complexity, the younger generation faces a crucial dilemma that could shape the fate of their careers and lives. As technology advances and the global economic paradigm shifts, the career options available to them are increasingly diverse and challenging. On the one hand, being an employee offers job stability, structured experience, and social security and benefits. On the other hand, being an entrepreneur opens the door to creative freedom, potentially high financial returns, and complete control over one's own business. However, each choice also brings its own challenges, be it in terms of creativity limitations, dependence on employers and companies, or high business risks. As a result, the younger generation is placed at a crossroads that requires them to make decisions that affect the direction of their lives and careers.

The Dilemma of the Youth Generation

The dilemma that arises in choosing between being an employee or an entrepreneur goes beyond mere employment considerations, it seeps into the domain of identity and life fulfilment of the younger generation. The pressure to choose a path that matches personal talents, interests and values becomes crucial. For some individuals, the main attraction lies in the quest for stability through conventional employment, creating a coveted image of financial security and social status. Meanwhile, a handful of others yearn for the freedom and challenge that can only be found through the journey as an entrepreneur. This choice involves more than just the aspect of salary or social position, it is a quest for self-fulfilment and meaningful contribution to society, signifying that this decision has a profound impact on one's outlook on life and existence.

Becoming an Employee at the Start of Your Career

Becoming an employee early in one's career opens the door to a number of benefits that are a major draw for the younger generation. Job stability, a key value in an era of economic uncertainty, gives an employee the certainty of a monthly income, job security, and other benefits that create a sense of comfort and tranquillity in daily life. Structured work experience is a valuable asset, providing a solid foundation for future career development, so that an employee can build a strong foundation in achieving their professional goals. In addition, social security and benefits are additional factors that provide financial protection and welfare for employees, providing a sense of security in dealing with various life situations.

However, being an employee also brings a number of challenges that may not be apparent at first glance. One common obstacle is the limitation of creativity. In a corporate environment of hierarchical structures and strict procedures, employees often feel bound by rules that may inhibit the expression of their innovative ideas. The ability to create and innovate can be limited by these restrictions, which may hinder individual development and the overall progress of the company. Dependence on superiors and the company can also be a heavy burden, where an employee's career decisions and direction often controlled by others. This can result in a lack of control over one's professional destiny, which in turn can affect motivation and job satisfaction.

Financial restraints can be a serious challenge, especially in the early stages of a career. Salaries may not be sufficient to fulfil the various necessities of life, while personal financial dependents can be substantial. This can hamper personal development, investment opportunities, or even hinder the ability to pursue personal interests and desires. Such financial restrictions can be a limiting factor in life and career choices, so young people may have to make compromises between aspirations and economic realities.

In exploring a career as an employee, an in-depth understanding of these potential benefits and challenges is key to making an informed and sustainable decision. Seeking a work environment that encourages creativity, provides room for professional growth, and provides adequate financial support can help overcome some of the challenges that may arise.

Becoming an Entrepreneur at the Start of Your Career

On the other side of the spectrum, becoming an entrepreneur early in one's career opens the door to opportunities and freedoms that may not be found in a conventional employee environment. The freedom of creativity and innovation is the main attraction, allowing an entrepreneur to explore and implement their creative ideas without being bound by rigid company rules. The potential for high financial returns is a strong driver for those with a passion for taking risks and creating innovative business opportunities. Business owners enjoy full control over the direction and operations of their own business, providing a sense of fulfilment and freedom rarely found in structured work structures.

However, being  an  entrepreneur  also  brings  with  it  a  number  of challenges that require great resilience and dedication. High business risk is a lurking ghost in every decision made, requiring analytical acumen and careful decision-making skills. Heavy workloads, especially in the early phases of business formation, can be a blow to work-life balance, draining energy and time significantly. The demands of business management, which require expertise in a variety of areas from marketing to finance, are a true test for those without extensive experience. Facing market uncertainty, changing economic trends and fierce competition, an entrepreneur must have the mental toughness and readiness to continuously learn and grow.

The choice to become an entrepreneur is not only about capitalising on opportunities and freedom, but also the extent to which one can endure and overcome the inevitable challenges. This decision requires a deep understanding of oneself, a tolerance for risk, and a commitment to continuously adapt to change. While the journey to becoming an entrepreneur may be full of twists and turns, for those with passion and determination, the potential to achieve tremendous success and realise their own vision is possible.

Factors Influencing Choice

The choice between being an employee or an entrepreneur is influenced by various factors, and one of them is the individual's aptitude and skills. A person with aptitude in a particular field may feel more comfortable and thrive as an employee in a related industry, while an individual with business development skills and a sense of challenge may feel more suited as an entrepreneur.

Interests and passions play a key role in determining career paths. A person who has a passion for a particular field of work may be more likely to choose to become an employee in that industry. Conversely, an individual who has a passion for creating and leading a business may be more interested in becoming an entrepreneur.

In addition, social and economic environmental factors can also influence career choices. Family environment, education and social influences can shape a person's perceptions and preferences regarding careers. In addition, economic conditions, the availability of business opportunities, and the market situation also influence the decisions of the younger generation. Not only that, views on risk play a significant role in determining whether one is more likely to be an employee or an entrepreneur. Those who are more comfortable with uncertainty and risk-taking may feel more suited as entrepreneurs, while those who prefer stability and certainty are more likely to choose to be employees.

Comprehensive Approach: Employee or Employer?

In response to the dilemma between being an employee or an entrepreneur, a comprehensive approach is key to exploring diverse career options. A concept that is gaining popularity is the development of a combined career model, where one can fulfil a dual role as an employee within a company and simultaneously run a small business or side project as an entrepreneur. This model provides the opportunity to combine the stability of a job and the creative freedom found in the role of an entrepreneur, creating continuity between two worlds that are often perceived as conflicting.

The importance of skills and capabilities enhancement is a key focus in this comprehensive approach. The younger generation is expected to hone skills appropriate to their career choices. Employees need to develop industry-specific skills to achieve maximum performance, while entrepreneurs need to understand aspects of business management, leadership skills, and technical expertise relevant to their field of endeavour. Education, training and personal development are key to improving qualifications and competitiveness in the ever-evolving world of work.

Long-term career planning also plays a central role in guiding youth towards sustainable career decisions. By planning the steps they take as both employees and entrepreneurs, individuals can ensure that their actions are aligned with their life and career goals. This plan includes identifying professional development steps, setting targets, and adapting to changes in the business environment and personal needs. In addition, a long-term career plan provides a framework for evaluating achievements and adjustments that may be needed over time.

This comprehensive approach reflects the increasingly complex and changing dynamics of the world of work. As a result of technological developments, globalisation, and the constant demands of the marketplace, the younger generation is faced with more diverse career options than ever before. By combining elements from the roles of employee and employer, as well as a focus on skills enhancement and long-term career planning, individuals can optimise their potential and face career challenges with confidence and wisdom. As such, this approach is not just about choosing between being an employee or an entrepreneur, but creating a balanced synthesis to achieve success in different aspects of professional life.

Case Study: Successes and Failures of being an entrepreneur and employee 

True Stories of Entrepreneurial Success: Al-Waleed bin Talal

Al-Waleed bin Talal is a Saudi Arabian businessman who is recognised as one of the most successful business figures in the Arab world. Born on 7 March 1955, Al-Waleed is the grandson of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founder of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. However, his success depends not only on his heritage, but also on his vision, smart investment policies, and hard work.

Al-Waleed started his business career by establishing Kingdom Holding Company in 1980, an investment company that operates in various sectors such as property, technology, media and finance. He has a vision to expand his investment portfolio globally.

One of his biggest investment decisions was in 1991 when Al-Waleed invested a large sum of money in shares of leading technology companies such as Apple and Citigroup. This decision brought him huge profits and enhanced his reputation as an accomplished investor.

However, his success is not only seen in material wealth. Al-Waleed is also known as an active philanthropist. Through Alwaleed Philanthropies, he donates large sums of money to humanitarian and community development projects around the world, in keeping with the humanitarian and philanthropic values espoused in Islam.

Al-Waleed bin Talal's story reflects that success in the business world does not have to be in conflict with Islamic values. On the contrary, Muslim entrepreneurs can achieve financial success and still adhere to the principles of ethics, justice, and social responsibility taught in Islamic teachings.

True Stories of Entrepreneurial Failure: Elizabeth Holmes

Elizabeth Holmes is a vivid example of a failed entrepreneur who has reached a high level of success, only to face heartbreaking failure. Born in 1984, Holmes founded a company called Theranos in 2003. Theranos aimed to revolutionise the world of healthcare with diagnostic technology that claimed to be able to perform various blood tests using only a small amount of blood from a tiny syringe.

At its peak, Theranos was valued at over $9 billion. However, further investigation revealed that Holmes' claims and presentation of the technology

not supported by adequate scientific evidence. In 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) brought fraud charges against Holmes and former Theranos President Sunny Balwani.

Elizabeth Holmes was faced with a series of lawsuits, and her image and reputation collapsed. Theranos ended up a huge failure and became one of the most glaring cases of fraud and business failure in recent years.

Elizabeth Holmes' story shows that even early success and business fame can be ruined if built on a dishonest and inaccurate foundation. Honesty, transparency and credibility are key factors to sustaining success in the business world.

True Story of Success as an Employee: Sundar Pichai

Sundar Pichai is a business magnate who achieved tremendous success as an employee and is currently the CEO of Alphabet Inc. the parent company of Google. Pichai was born in 1972 in Chennai, India, and earned a bachelor's degree in metallurgical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. Afterwards, he pursued a master's degree at Stanford University in the United States.

Pichai joined Google in 2004 as senior vice president of product management. During his years at Google, he led numerous successful projects, including the development of the Google Chrome web browser and the Android operating system for mobile devices. These successes paved the way for Pichai to become Google's CEO in 2015.

As CEO of Google, Sundar Pichai continues to lead the company through innovations, including the development of new products and Google's expansion into various technology areas. In 2019, Pichai also took over as CEO of Alphabet Inc, Google's parent company.

Sundar Pichai's success story shows that with talent, hard work, and dedication, one can reach a high position in a company even as an employee. Pichai is an inspiration to many aspiring individuals in the world of technology and business.

It is therefore the younger generation who are faced with complex choices in building their careers. They need to understand that there is no single right or wrong path. Instead, their decisions should be based on a deep understanding of themselves, skills development and a purposeful career plan. By doing so, they can achieve success and build fulfilling careers, whether as employees or entrepreneurs.