I was watching Shark Tank the other day when the question popped into my head: when do we give up control and when do we say “the hell with it” and continue struggling ahead?

The premise of Shark Tank is entrepreneurs pitch a team of investors in an attempt to gain additional capital. A lot of offers the “sharks” make require the entrepreneur to give up majority control in their businesses. Some take it, others walk away. So it begs the question: at what point is the struggle not worth it anymore?

For start-ups and small businesses, the dream of financial independence is the ultimate goal. Yes, I know creating a product that “changes the world” is also a high priority. But ultimately, starting a business doing what you love and being able to make a comfortable living is the American Dream.

I’ve been fortunate enough to experience both sides of the coin. I spent time at a small family-owned business that truly enjoyed the chase and passed up multiple buyout offers, and I also spent a short time at a business that took the payout and moved on. Each situation was different and there wasn’t a “right” or “wrong”, but it gave me a unique look at what truly inspires business owners.

So what does this have to do with the PR space?

When working with a client or pitching a potential client, how do you deal with the struggles? How do you deal with success? Would you take the shark’s offer and be willing to give up control for the additional resources? Or do you continue the struggle in hopes of making it by yourself? Is the reward any greater if you push through the struggle, regardless of the final outcome? Looking back, are there any instances where struggling alone and not meeting the desired results was worth it? Or are people simply stubborn if they don’t reach for help?