Almost 2 Years as a Self-Funded Searcher — Does It Really Pay Off?

I’ve been running my search fund journey since January 2024, doing it full-time and completely self-funded. It’s been almost two years with no revenue, and while I wouldn’t say it’s been the hardest thing I’ve done, it’s definitely taking much longer than I expected. For those who have been in this same situation and eventually closed their first deal, I’d really like to hear from you: Was it worth it in the end? What helped you stay consistent through the long phase before closing? If you could go back, what advice would you give to your earlier self? I’m asking because I know many of us are on this same path, and hearing from those who made it could really help others stay on track. Sometimes I just start thinking it’d be way easier to get a job and have some income coming in. Almost two years with no income has been hard — but I truly believe it’ll all be worth it as soon as we close that first deal.