You've got a great business idea. You're excited at the possibility of being your own boss and taking control of your own destiny. There's only one small problem: you have no idea where to start. The most important thing you can do, is capitalize on the excitement you currently have and get some momentum started.

Below are a few simple action steps that will help launch you into the realm of "business owner"

1. Research. Hop on the internet and type in a keyword for you idea. Read what is available on your topic. Identify gaps in the available information; those are gaps you could fill, potential services you could provide.

2. Talk it up. Tell you mother, your best friend, the neighbor down the street. Tell anyone who will listen to you about your idea. This will do 2 things. First it will create some accountability, you've told so many people about this great business you're not in a position to just drop it. Secondly (and more importantly) someone you talk to is bound to know other places or people where you can get information. Maybe they have a cousin in another city who started the same business, or maybe they are aware of a vendor who could get you a great deal on your raw materials. People know people and most people are willing to share their knowledge with you.

3. Create a dummy business plan. This does not have to be your take-to-the-bank-to-get-a-loan business plan. This can just be a rough draft. The point is to create something that will get to you thinking about what you need to do. There are many business plan resources on the Internet and most of them ask you some pretty hefty questions. Even if you're not ready to create a serious business plan, this is good way to get you thinking in the right direction.

4. Start an ideas notebook. As you do your research, you will be bombarded with a lot of ideas, some good, some not so good. Creating a system to keep track of those ideas will help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and ensure nothing slips through the proverbial cracks. Once your business is underway, continue to use your notebook as a repository for ideas. Make it a point to periodically review it when you find yourself in need of inspiration.

5. Talk with other entrepreneurs. Business owners are a special breed. Talk with other people who have started their own business to learn their lessons. Find out what they love about it and what are the challenges. Learn what networking venues are most successful for them.

6. Set a timeline. Give yourself a deadline to stop researching and start acting. Don't allow your enthusiasm and motivation to wither.

Credit:
© Copyright 2002 All Rights Reserved Myrtis Smith is a personal coach. She works with people who are undergoing
a career change. Sign up for her free newsletter Change Now! at www.premeditatedlife.com or send an email to
changenow@premeditatedlife.com

Premeditated Life .......because life doesn't just happen!

Myrtis Smith
www.premeditatedlife.com
....because life doesn't just happen!

Related Information:

NBA Benefit Partner - Business Buffet

NBA Resource Article - Building your Business for Success in 2002

NBA Business Resource Library - How-To Create A Business Plan