Do You Have What it Takes for a Home-Based Business? Three things to look for...

So you're thinking about it. A home-based business. You're tired of the whole J.O.B. thing, the commute, the low pay...you name it. You certainly didn't dream of overtime and overdue house payments and orthodontics for your kids. You know there's lots out there...you heard about the mechanic who went from broke to gazillionaire in a matter of months. Can't be that hard...

Or can it?

You know you want it, but what does it really take to succeed in a home-based business?

I'm going to suggest a few quick and general things...

First, take a long, hard look at you. Yes, you. Do you whine and complain about your station in life? None of it's your fault...things just worked out the way they did. If that's you, you'll first need to change your mindset before you take on a business. No matter how easy it seemed for Joe Mechanic, his success, I guarantee, came when he determined to take responsibility for his life...and his success. There's lots to do to change...but you need to start with an honest self-assessment. Ask your spouse, your co-workers, or your friends what they see as your strengths...and your weaknesses. Be ready for their answers...

Okay, you've done some thinking here, and accepted who you are. Now you're ready for the next reality check.

Second, to work for yourself from your home, you need to be focused and disciplined. Before you quit your job, you may have to give up those hours of television in the evening and the idea that weekends are free. Later, when things are rolling and you no longer need the W-2, it's okay to decide that your work hours are before the kids get home from school and after they're in bed, but you do have to set aside regular work hours. And, you'll probably have to take some crash courses in putting together your business plan, from filing papers with the IRS and your State Business Office to accounting to marketing. It may seem easy to make lots of money at home, and it may come quick, but it takes work...that's the part that often gets overlooked.

You've got it scheduled...great.

Third, what is it that you really want to do? Whether you're working for someone else or yourself, you won't truly be happy unless you're doing something you love. Something that makes you excited to get started each morning. Take a look at your life now. Are there hobbies you spend all of your time either working on or dreaming about? My youngest son has a small construction company, plays the saxophone in club bands, and makes custom frames. But what he really loves is bar tending, because he loves being a host.

That's a short list. But it's a start.

Remember what a home-based business can do for you...no more forced overtime, your house paid off, and the best orthodontists for the kids.

But it takes a certain mindset, discipline and focus, and work that you're passionate about.

You have it in you; now go for it!

Blessings,
Judy