Five things you should know about yourself before starting a business

There are of course many things to consider before starting a

business, but I believe the following five points are very important for laying the groundwork.  

How well do you know yourself? What is your potential as an

entrepreneur?  

Are you thinking about starting a business?  

Here are five key questions you should ask yourself before you begin a business venture.  

1) Am I a self-starter?  

2) How committed am I?  

3) Am I able to set goals?  

4) How much time can I dedicate to this?  

5) Do I need or expect an instant return on my investment?

What is a self-starter? It is someone who can get the wheels turning without prodding, someone who is motivated to get up and get moving,someone whose drive comes from within not from outside forces.

Where I work there are two basic kinds of people,those who are essentially tasks wise and conscientious, they get in there and get the job done. They know what is expected and do it. The other kind are those who always seem to need reminding,prodding and coaxing in order to complete assigned tasks. 

Next is commitment,starting and running a business takes an amount of commitment and dedication that not everyone has. Each of us must examine our level of commitment to whatever the venture. If you're not committed it is very hard to stay the course when difficulties present,and they will. With each challenge overcome there is victory. With victory comes a strengthening of our committment.

Goal setting is paramount. Until recently, my own goals were not clearly defined and in the crush to meet deadlines and complete tasks my work was scattered and disorganized. Imagine getting that football through the posts if they aren't there to aim between. Set goals,review them often and change and update them as needed. When you state a goal, there is a timeline associated with it, it helps avoid time wasting and energy wasting exercises. People who set goals tend to accomplish more. Goals should be specific measurable reachable appropriate and have a timeline.

Time is the big factor for most of us. Our lives are already so full of the everyday chores' tasks and duties of life. Where do we squeeze out more? However, time is a necessity and in the beginning, a lot of time is needed to get things going. That's why I discussed commitment and goals first. Beginning a business will take a big chunk of time in many varying increments. I have heard it said,"you need to plan the

work and work the plan." Have a place to work and set aside periods of uninterrupted time that is just for you and your business. Hey, It can seem very daunting but oh boy! It can sure be lots of fun too.

The last part of this discussion deals with return on your

investment. Rarely will you enjoy immediate monetary gains from a brand-new business. There are unavoidably costs and expenses with any fresh business venture, and it takes time to recoup and then begin to see a profit. Examine your motives, your needs and the urgency with which you need to see profit.  

Make your business something you feel passionate about,something you love,something you are willing to put blood sweat and tears into.

Thrive in the challenge!

Have fun, enjoy the ride.

Start your own engine baby!