It’s not unusual for me to be questioned about my path to becoming an entrepreneur. If I am being completely honest, it is something that I always knew was the right fit for me. However, many other people don’t decide on entrepreneurship until after they have launched another career. While I had not launched a career, I was working (more than) full time when I started my business and I continued to do so until my business was steady. If you are currently working in a certain field but you feel like being an entrepreneur is your calling, try following these steps.
Decide what you want to do.
Perhaps you have always dreamed of opening a bakery. Maybe you want to create and sell jewelry. One of the best parts of being an entrepreneur is that you are creating your own job and you can decide exactly what you want to do.
Research, research, research.
Once you have decided on your new career path, it is time to start doing your research. Don’t jump in with both eyes closed because that will make it impossible to land on your feet. Learn as much about owning a business as you can and try to get a realistic idea of how difficult it will be to make this transition. One of the best things you can do is shadow someone who is doing what you would like to do. Spending one week assisting a wedding planner may send you screaming in the other direction or it may let you know that it is exactly what you want to do and give you the inspiration to work harder towards your goal.
Start out small.
Unless you have an unlimited amount of cash flow, it is a smart idea to slowly transition into being a business owner. In fact, many people choose to keep their jobs because of stability, insurance, or income but still pursue their passions professionally. If you decide to make your business your full time career, make sure that you either have enough money to support yourself until your business will bring in money or work both jobs until you have enough income from your business to support yourself.
Get connected.
Having a great brand is one thing but having other great brands connected to your own is a recipe for success. Find brands that you respect and admire and find ways to help each other out. Collaborations on projects can help out both of your brands and allow you to grow creatively. In addition to that, you will most likely make amazing friends in similar fields.
Becoming an entrepreneur is one of the best things I have done for myself. I love the career that I have created, the amazing places that it continues to take me, and the amazing people that have come into my life because of it. If you are thinking about becoming an entrepreneur but you are looking for the right sign, consider this it. Just make sure to put in the time to make informed decisions, do tons of research, start smart and small, and find the right people to help you along your journey.