Every small business (and large corporations too, for that matter) starts with an idea. A little inkling of an idea that you might have for the type of business you see yourself operating. I don’t know about you, but I knew that I wanted to work on my own long before I knew exactly what to do or how to do it. And there were dozens of little ideas along the way before I landed in the place where I am at. How do you know if you have an idea, talent, the resources, energy, etc. that you can turn into a thriving small home business?
Try your idea out on a few people. I don’t mean to just open up and dump your idea on anyone and everyone. In fact, I do believe that we need to protect our ideas in their fledgling stages from detractors and harsh, negative criticism. But try your idea out on a few people you trust OUTSIDE your immediate support circle. Sure, your mom and your spouse might think it is a great idea (or a horrible idea) but take your idea to professionals in the field and more objective, trusted people so you can get some good, usable feedback.
Take the time to do the market research and all the homework related to your business idea first. Many entrepreneurs get so excited about a potential idea that they just jump into the scalding water head first. Resist the urge to act on your ideas before you’ve really researched, tested the market place, and done all the research and preparation that you can manage. Good planning and taking your time in the idea stages can mean the difference between a successful business and one that stumbles and fails. Of course, you will NOT know that you have a truly great idea until you give it a try, but research on the front end can help to make your risk a more calculated one.
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