Some of the women and men I coach wish to run their own business. Either full-time or on-the-side. When I ask: What would having your own business do for you? The resounding answers are INDEPENDENCE & FREEDOM.

Many of us want to experience free lives. Lives where we call the shots, go where we want when we want, and are in command of our income. The only challenge is that the idea of running a business versus the reality of running a business, are two very different things…

If you’re considering starting or growing a business there are three vital things to check:

1. Self-check: Why do you want to run a business? What lifestyle do you want? How much do you need to earn for the independence you crave? Are you ready to work the hours that $$amount requires? Sometimes people imagine running a busines is the way to find inner ease and peace, but I promise you you can find that without the hours and energy it’ll take to build your own business. On the other hand, if you’re not afraid of hard work and wearing many hats over the long haul, plus you  genuinely see yourself at the helm of something then full-time business owner might just be for you.

2. Market-check: do you have a service or product that other people want? How do you know? It’s wise to test your idea out with friends or acquaintances in your network who you would define as your ideal market. Alternatively, just go for it and make sure you can support yourself for a pre-determined period of time. Also, look for big and small ways you might have already seen success with your idea in the past.

3. Stop talking: I notice that people often get stuck in the discussion of starting or growing a business, rather than actually getting into action. The only real way you can find out if being a business owner is the right fit for you is by putting yourself out there and trying it on. Start taking steps.

“Decisiveness is a characteristic of high-performing men and women. Almost any decision is better than no decision at all.” Brian Tracy

What decision will you make today about your self-employment desires? Self-check and if you get a ‘yes’ then market-check. But mainly, stop talking and decide what that first, second or next step is. At the very least you’ll find out whether this is really something you want.

Independence IS freedom. A way of experiencing life. Find ways to look at your life and recognize where independence and freedom already exist. Close your eyes and imagine feeling that way right now. This can help move you closer to deciding if business ownership is what you truly want.

To Consider

Independence and Freedom might come from running your own business, yes. But knowing what they really mean to you is invaluable. Perhaps it’s working from anywhere in the world? Or having dinner out whenever you want to? Weekend breaks four times a year? A feeling of peace of mind and ease? Or maybe exploring your potential and feeling like you’re giving something all you have?

Find out what Independence and freedom really mean to you. Be specific. As you take it out of the fantasy realm it will be much easier to then know the steps that will get you there. And that may or may not include starting a business.