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In this section are a sampling of my published articles and links to media appearances.
Make the Transition From Employee to Entrepreneur
by Deborah A. Bailey
For some people starting a business is a dream that they think will only come true once they leave their day job. You may have heard that you should start your business before you quit your job, however, doing both things at the same time can be a huge challenge. Even if you have the ability to put in hours on the job and in your business, eventually you will have to make the transition into being a full-time entrepreneur if you want your business to grow. Getting that regular paycheck can be very reassuring and give you a feeling of security that will be hard to give up. Having a plan will keep you on track.
1. Pick a date for when you'd like to move into running your business full-time. Set a date that feels comfortable for you.
2. Look at your finances. Do you need a certain amount of money for starting your business? Will you be covered once your regular salary is no longer coming in?
3. Start eliminating debt if you can. You may need to incur debt to invest in your business, so get rid of as much as you can while you still have a regular salary.
4. Keep your family in the know about your plans. It's best to discuss any concerns now. Don't wait until you've left your job and then have to deal with issues around your decision.
5. Once you are responsible for creating your own income, it won't be the same as living with a paycheck coming in on a regular (and predictable) schedule. There will be fluctuations in your income. Figure out waht money you'll need in order to provide for your business and living expenses.
6. If you're working from a home office, being a full-time entrepreneur may mean you'll be spending a lot of time alone. Start networking and connecting with other entrepreneurs so that you can build a support system before you go out on your own.
7. Create your vision for what you want to accomplish. If you have limiting beliefs they will impact your business success. Need help as you make this transition? Consider getting a business or life coach to support you. All successful people have coaches and/or mentors; they are a critical part of an entrepreneur's "power team."
Starting a business takes courage and vision. By becoming a business owner, you are stepping out of the mainstream and stepping into a way of life with limitless potential. When planning this major career transition, give yourself time to plan it properly so that you can insure your business success.
© 2009 Deborah A Bailey
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Deborah A. Bailey is a writer, career expert, coach, author of "Think Like an Entrepreneur: Transform Your Career and Take Charge of Your Life" and host of "Women Entrepreneurs - The Secrets of Success," an Internet radio talk show. For more information visit her website at www.dbaileycoach.com.
Articles & Blog Posts
For more insights into career changes, check out the posts I've added here on my coaching blog.
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