Do you have what it takes?

A display of pies from new business Desperation Bakehouse

Do you have what it takes to start your own small business?  There are so many things to address when thinking about starting a business for the first time.  You will be your own most important and first employee, so an objective analysis of your strengths and weaknesses is essential.

Are you someone who:
…can launch something on your own?
…is a self-starter and takes initiative?
…can make good decisions when there are many options?
…has the necessary physical and emotional stamina to be self-employed?
…can plan and organize new and existing information well?
…has a positive attitude and a passion for being in business?
…has good support from family and friends?

Do you have a business or business idea that you want to develop?
Do you know what business you want to start?  Do you know how to assess whether or not an idea is viable for you and the marketplace?

The best business for you is going to be the business where you have:
…a strong passion and a sustaining interest in the product or service.
…some of the skills needed to provide the service or build the product.
…some previous and related work experience.
…researched the potential for this type of enterprise.
…worked for someone who is doing something similar to what you would like to provide.
…some understanding of what the customer or client expects from this type of business.
…confidence that this product or service is wanted or needed in the marketplace and can attract clients/customers.

Not all of the above conditions need to be in place before you start exploring self-employment. But these are issues that will be key for long-term success!