Five years ago, Simon Madgwick swapped a career in finance for self-employment and opened his business, Simon’s Bakery, creating bespoke celebration and wedding cakes. Based in Tooting, south-west London, his passion for producing stunning cakes is matched by his enjoyment of being an entrepreneur. “Having worked in a corporate office environment for 20 years, nothing compares with being your own boss, being in control and accountable for everything, and knowing that your destiny is in your own hands,” he says.
It can be easy to lose sight of upsides such as these, given the economic challenges of recent years. Small business owners have had to perform miraculous feats to deal with unexpected upheavals, and some of the more intangible benefits of running your own business can get lost amid the day-to-day pressures.
