Starting a Change Management Consultancy in 2026!?

Question for those who have their own Change Management consultancy. How did you start? I was recently made redundant because of financial restructuring within the business. Now, the company made it very clear that it wasn't because of my performance but for financial reasons, and they have also provided a letter explaining the same. I am not going to lie - I was a bit of an expense for the business because I was paid more compared to my peers on the same level. For reference, my direct senior was paid 10% more than what I was being paid. The company was going through a bit of a tough time and wasn't able to close projects for Digital Transformation products, in which I specialise.

However, the non-compete still stands. This was my first ever consulting role - and also my first client-facing role.

I’m feeling a bit stuck on how to take the leap into independent consulting given these constraints, and I’d love some advice from those who have built their own Change Management practices:

1. How enforceable is a non-compete usually after a redundancy? Has anyone successfully negotiated their way out of one, or used the company's financial restructuring letter as leverage?
2. How did you land your first 2-3 clients? Since this was my first client-facing role, my personal network of buyers is relatively small. Did you start by subcontracting for larger boutique firms, or did you go straight to cold outreach?
3. What do you wish you knew in your first 6 months? Any pitfalls I should avoid while setting up my business infrastructure?

Appreciate any insights, realities, or tough love you can share. Thanks in advance!