The Tribune

By Teri M. Bethel Many of us have the ideal business venture in mind or at least can identify our predominant skill. Some of us have visions that constantly drive us to what we believe our career should be. Before jumping into your great business idea you may want to test the market. Excitement alone is not a sturdy platform on which to build a business. Find out if your product or service is something the general population wants or needs. Your product may not be for a large group but a particular niche market; research your options thoroughly. Ask your potential market questions; allow people to test your product for free with a view of giving constructive feedback. To embark on a project just because you love it is not sufficient grounds for success. That's like making chicken souse with chicken nuggets--just because you and Maisy enjoy it may not mean that it is widely accepted. In such a case, you would probably find yourself unable to even give away the souse. Getting Started Getting started is essential in achieving your goals. Your journey begins with the first step of faith. If you have an idea, you need to get started with it. Do not let time or the lack of time become a problem for you. Take small steps until you are able to make bigger steps. One small step each day will give you 365 steps in a year; that in itself is going to bring you closer to your goal. Don't Quit your Day Job Many people become consumed with their new projects, without testing them or giving them time to grow and develop. It is not wise to quit your job while your project is still in the baby stage. Give it time to grow and develop; learn your seasons and what your customer base wants. While you may be passionate about what you do it is always better to grow into your new area, rather than to just go into it. Allow your day job to assist you in unfurling your dream. This job may supply the necessary funding for any equipment or materials you may need. Or perhaps pay for a training program to get you better positioned for your new career on a full time basis. Next week we will chat about being busy versus being productive; how smart working can affect your business. Until then, keep dreaming and working steadily towards your goals to achieve amazing results. About the Author: Teri M. Bethel is a surface designer who specialises in teaching how to create textured painted fabrics and custom purses. Teri has been involved in manufacturing painted garments, handbags and souvenirs for over two decades. Contact her at www.PaintWithTexture.com.