This is an accurate description for me as well. Started my tech consultancy in 2015 solo. First PT hire was Aug 2018, converted him to FTE in Apr 2019 and added a services division of the business. I didn’t have a lot saved up and at the time, I had 5 kids (6 now!). I found some good business mentors, good spiritual mentors, and had the support of my awesome wife. It was tough for the first 4 years. Some days I didn’t know how I was going to pay myself - or when the next time I could was. Lots of sleepless nights, tons of high stress, and lots of questioning life choices. BUT, I persevered and now have a business that has zero debt and makes ~$1.2M/yr in recurring revenue and growing. We’re expected to get close to $2M next year in fact. It has been a WILD ride and it wasn’t easy. But it’s worth it (now).