Going with the trend, I now refer to myself as a "Solopreneur"
Being a solopreneur is more about freedom than being tied to wealth.
Perhaps a few readers have noticed that I’ve added "Solopreneur" to my profile.
Let’s start with the definition:
A solopreneur is a person who sets up a business, of which they are the sole employee. A solopreneur is both the owner and the workforce of their business. They are responsible for organizing, managing, and assuming the risks of their enterprise, without the help of a partner [source]
Over the years, I have single-handedly developed several internationally acclaimed software products and services with commercial customers, including:
TestWise: An internationally acclaimed functional testing IDE
ClinicWise: A clinic practice management system
SiteWise: A content management system
BuildWise: An international award-winning CT Server
WhenWise: A service booking app
Training: E2E Test Automation & Continuous Testing
Coaching: E2E Test Automation & Continuous Testing
E2E Test Scripting Services: A high-quality web test automation scripting service at an incredibly low price.
Author: Published 13 books (14 next week) and recognized as a top blogger on E2E test automation
Above all, I’ve NOT worked for others since 2021, following more than a decade of developing and managing the side hustles mentioned above.
The term “Solopreneur” is clearly derived from “entrepreneur”, often associated with wealth and sometimes carrying a subtle, negative undertone (e.g., the stereotype of the “fat-cat entrepreneur”). The implied notion of wealth doesn’t fit my reality.
Instead, I have preferred the term “Micro-ISV” (Independent Software Vendor) to describe myself. However, “Micro-ISV” typically refers to teams of 1–10 developers, which lacks the emphasis on being truly solo.
What led me to embrace the term Solopreneur?
Several reasons:
I've observed an increasing number of "seemingly successful" individuals adding "Solopreneur" to their LinkedIn profiles recently.
It appears that, like me, their focus is on measuring 👍 freedom rather than wealth 💰.The movement of “Digital Nomads”
BTW, I predicted that. Check out my articles:
- Why I Encourage My Daughter to Pursue Information Technology as a Career?
- What Work Can I Do as an Independent "Digital Nomad"?
- Work Anytime, Work Anywhere and Work Independently
Forbes’ article, 5 years ago Recognizing that "Micro-ISV" primarily applies to software developers, while a significant portion of my audience consists of non-programmer software professionals who can also embrace the "Solopreneur" path.
Many of the activities I mentioned earlier don’t require strong programming skills. Moreover, I believe my products can empower motivated professionals to generate consistent passive income. Stay tuned for details on my marketing partner program!
The realization of “Solopreneur” is not about being Wealthy, but rather being Independent and Solo.
Solopreneur ≠ Millon-Dollar Solopreneur
Some might argue, "Zhimin, if a business owner isn’t making millions, he/she is not a solopreneur." But who/what really defines the term? I haven’t come across any reputable source that links the definition of solopreneur to a specific annual revenue. Most of the CEOs I’ve met are former colleagues—senior software developers (contractors, who work daily for others) —running side businesses (mostly failed).
Being a Software Solopreneur is Possible now, Thanks to the Internet
I have an entire series called "Micro-ISV," which also applies to software solopreneurs, using myself as an example.
Being a solopreneur doesn’t necessarily require working in software, but it often does—or at least requires familiarity with it. Keep in mind, there are no employees. Running a business solo means you need to outsource and efficiently use tools and services provided by others, often through software and online tools. A software solopreneur often automates tasks to enhance efficiency.
I believe most of my readers are already in the software industry. If you're not a fan of the traditional 9-to-5 routine, take action instead of just complaining about colleagues and office politics.
A widely recognized piece of advice is that the shortcut to success is finding a great mentor. . Again, few will take action to seek a mentor, which makes this advice even more valuable. By acting on it, you gain a significant edge over others.
E2E Test Automation and Continuous Testing are two suitable fields for Solopreneurs
I will write a dedicated article for this, stay tuned.
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