Starting a business can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.
It has undoubtedly been one of the biggest joys of my life.
However, as much as I adore owning a business in the personal development industry, like Bob, I know I’d be miserable if I had chosen certain fields.
So, starting and growing the right business is key to creating a satisfying enterprise.
Bob and I have helped people start and grow almost every kind of business you can imagine. We show aspiring entrepreneurs, step by step, how to move from the dreadful sense of living someone else’s dream to the delightful feeling of self-expression.
But, there’s one thing each person must ultimately decide on their own. They must choose a business that will light them up each day. A business that they’re in harmony with spiritually, intellectually and emotionally.
If you’re considering starting a business, this post provides a few guidelines that can help you uncover an idea that is both fulfilling and inspiring for you.
Get started on the right foot
To start the idea process, take out a sheet of paper and write “Things I Love” across the top.
List everything you can think of that you really enjoy or are good at. It doesn’t matter whether it’s something in your personal life or work life—just write down whatever comes to mind.
Your list might include: I’m really good with people. I love kids. I love to read. I love playing board games. I love computers. I’m great with numbers. I’m good at coming up with marketing concepts. I am good at solving problems. I love dogs.
When you’ve written it all down, set the list aside and ask yourself a question many people never consider:
“Why am I starting a business?”
Don’t skip this step
When you’re about to do something that will change every aspect of your life, doesn’t it make sense to know why?
To increase your chances of long-term success and happiness, you should not only make sure you are starting the right business but also that you’re doing it for the right reasons.
Starting a business just because you’re tired of working for someone else isn’t sustainable. Nor should you do it for the money. That’s like getting married because you’re tired of being alone or you want someone else to help you with the bills.
Like getting married, starting a business is hard work. It’s not always fun and exciting. Even if you make a lot of money, it won’t sustain you over the long haul if you don’t thoroughly enjoy what you’re doing and fully believe that you are bringing value to others.
• You have a strong desire to solve a problem(s) and change the world
• You are aware of a market gap, and you have the expertise and willingness to fill it.
• It’s something you feel called to do—it’s in your DNA. If your gut tells you that it’s what you’re meant to do, pay attention to it. If the universe is trying to tell you something, it’s a good idea to listen. Otherwise, you risk spending the rest of your life wondering what might have been.
Look for a pattern
Once you know your “why,” go back to the list you made earlier, the one with the things you enjoy and are good at.
Look the list over carefully, and then review your reason for wanting to start a business in the first place. When you’re done, look for a pattern or connection to emerge.
For example, you might discover there’s an underserved market that could benefit from your expertise in something you are good at and love to do.
Or, after doing some internet research, you may find out there’s a demand for a doggie daycare center in your area—or some other service or product that you would love to offer.
Start now
Don’t wait until you save a lot of money or have an extensive business plan to start doing what you enjoy. A lot of people do that, and their ideas never see the light of day.
Doing things that you love puts you in a good vibration. And that attracts good things to you—things you want. So, start now—even if you haven’t yet figured out how to monetize it.
Test what it might be like to work in an area you’re passionate about. Build your business network and ask for feedback that will help you develop and refine your business idea.
This can not only show the value you would bring, but you can also get testimonials that will help launch your business when you’re ready to make it official.
I know conventional business advice would be to get all your ducks in a row before you start a business.
But Bob and I are entrepreneurs who don’t go by “the book.” We go by the natural laws of the universe and our own experience. We recommend taking actionable steps that are in harmony with the Laws and focused on creating the results you want.
After decades of study, business ownership and teaching, we know the only things you need to start a business are the right idea and a decision to do it.
We will help you take it from there.
To more and better,
Sandy Gallagher
P.S. Want more tips that will help you choose the right business?