Have you been putting off your own financial independence? Here’s why. Bypass your hesitation for good with these 3 essential steps.
How many of you wish you could have your own business? Set your own hours? Be your own boss? Not have to answer to anyone?
How many of you have actually done it?
It’s very common for people who are thinking of starting their own business to fear the unknown. What if it doesn’t work? What if I fail? The key to overcoming any fear is to keep it in check and focus on the end result.
IN THE BEGINNING, MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS DISCOURAGED ME FROM QUITTING MY STABLE JOB, BUT I DIDN’T LET THAT STOP ME.
The day I decided to start my first business was the most liberating day of my life. I had what most would consider a dream job, with a comfortable salary and decent working hours—but I was bored, demotivated, and didn’t want to be bound to the decisions of people I disagreed with most of the time.
In the beginning, my family and friends discouraged me from quitting my stable job, but I didn’t let that stop me. Instead, I believed in myself. I put a plan in place, followed it, and blocked the discouragement.
How do I start my own business?
Decide what you want to do
What is the purpose of your business? Who are you selling to? What are your end goals? How will you finance your startup costs?
Creating my plan was very motivating, since I was thinking about all the great things I would gain: working from home, or even from the beach, when I felt like it—which I often do now!
Stick to your plan
During the implementation phase, you may start to second-guess yourself. Start telling a few people, like close friends or family members who you know will support you—and update them on your progress. This will make the whole process feel very real.
I HAD A FULL-TIME JOB, AND MY PLAN REQUIRED ME TO SPEND 2-3 HOURS EVERY EVENING WORKING ON MY NEW COMPANY. I HAD TO PUSH MYSELF SOME DAYS, BUT I KEPT REMINDING MYSELF WHY I WAS DOING THIS.
A good plan allows for flexibility. This may be challenging for some, as it requires us to step out of our comfort zones. I had a full-time job, and my plan required me to spend 2-3 hours every evening working on my new company. I had to push myself some days, but I kept reminding myself why I was doing this.
Ignore the Negativity
Unfortunately, in our culture, people think they have the right to give you “advice,” regardless of whether or not you asked for it: “Are you sure this is a good idea?” or “The economy is horrible, you’ll never make it.” Avoid these types of people, and stop telling them your plans. Some people will never get it, so don’t waste your energy trying to convince them. Focus on you and your goals.
If you have a great idea, implement it. If you are not happy with your job, start exploring your options. There’s nobody stopping you but you. It’s your life. Go out there and design it as you wish! Happy 2016.
