It’s true that times have changed in the job market in recent years and with the economy in a constant state of flux, it’s tough to assume that the job you have today is the same job you’ll have in a year. Whether you love what you do and you’re simply thinking about securing your future or you’re ready to branch out on your own, entrepreneurship is always an option. Along with starting your own business comes a whole heap of responsibilities that are somewhat behind the scenes when you work for someone else, but being an entrepreneur can offer endless (and sometimes unmatched) benefits in the long run. So how do you make this transition? How do you give up the security of a weekly paycheck to chase a dream and branch out on your own? If you’re ready and excited, but aren’t quite sure how to take that first step, keep reading for a look at the best ways to transition to working on your own.
The Best Ways to Transition to Working on Your Own
Backburner your ego. Starting off on your own will mean a lot of rejection in the beginning – and that’s ok. You need to be willing to do all the work – get your hands dirty – and own every ounce of your new business, both the stumbles and the successes.
Keep your business simple and streamlined. Rather than getting involved in a complex process or complicated business plan, stay focused on one process or one product and do it well.
Have a financial backup plan. There’s always the chance that things will be slow to get off the ground – and you have to be ready for that. Start a savings that will work as your backup while you get started and be sure to have a monthly budget in place.
Frugality will work in your favor. Rather than coming out of the gate hiring loads of help or renting high-end office space, start small and keep it grassroots. This approach will pay off in the end.
Network. Network. Network. The only way you’re going to get your name out there is to put your feet to the pavement and get moving! What you get out of your business will be the result of what you put in – and often, that means working very hard – especially in the beginning.
Remember your goals and don’t let anyone stop you from going after a dream. This is your chance to turn your passion into a business – and for that, you should be eternally driven. No matter what anyone says – the naysayers or the downers – you’ve got this!
Are you thinking about transitioning from a full time job to working for yourself? What will your first steps include?
