Before you quit your job or print business cards, it is wise to take stock of personal considerations. Ask yourself:
Do I have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?
Am I a risk-taker?
Do I have a grasp of basic financial and marketing principles?
Am I resourceful and organized?
Can I support myself and/or my family financially during the early stages of the venture when cash may be short?
Will my family and friends be supportive during the start-up process?
Am I knowledgeable and experienced enough in my chosen field?
If the answer to any of these questions is "no," you may want to focus on some form of self-improvement before proceeding.
If most of your answers are 'yes,' then it is time to become a realist! Get as much information as you can on the feasibility of your idea and on the real experience of starting and managing any business. You can do this by:
accessing business publications and data from the library,
taking seminars and workshops,
speaking to trade or professional groups which represent your chosen industry,
consulting with people who are already in the same or similar line of business,
and seeking advice from SCORE.
Source: District of Columbia SBDC
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