- Feb. 06
- Richard Parker
4 Tips for Starting Your Own Business (And Increasing Your Income)
Have you ever thought about starting your own business, but you don’t really know how to go about it? If you’re somebody who loves to make (and save) money, you’ll know how hard you actually work for somebody else, without really getting much for it. Sure, you get your wages, but the guy that you’re working for is getting paid five times the amount of money, and he’s not working half as hard. If you want to start up your own business, and reap all of the benefits, then follow these simple tips!
Tip #1: Look for a Gap in the Market
If you want to make a good amount of money from your endeavour, the best thing to do is to look out for a gap in the market. As any successful business owner will tell you, they saw a great opportunity, and they took it. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can push your business towards success if there just aren’t any people out there who want your services, so know the current market inside out, and seize the right chance.
Tip #2: Do what you love
Another important thing to remember is that you have to do what you love, as you’ll never have to work a day in your life if you do. As the owner of Gull Harbor Marina says, ‘figure out something you love to do and build a business where you can do that all the time.’ Whether this is being outdoors and out on the water, or reading and publishing books, you have to find joy in your work, or you’ll find it pretty difficult to carve out some success for yourself.
Tip #3: Plan Well
If you’re going to succeed in business, you need to ensure that you’ve planned well. If you don’t do this, you’ll risk failing simply because you haven’t anticipated those things that are coming over the horizon. Decide what you’re going to spend each part of your budget on, and stick to this. You’ll never succeed if you just go into business blindly, so plan before you take the plunge and plan every day after that, too!
Tip #4: Take Risks
When you first start your own business, you’re not going to know everything that there is to know about how to get it right straight away. The best thing that you can learn is that some things are going to go wrong, but it will shape you as a businessman (or woman) and it will help you to deal with the problems that present themselves to you in the future. Take some risks, and don’t punish yourself if you make any mistakes. It’s natural!
So, if you want to start your own business, and subsequently increase your income, there are some things that you need to keep in mind. Looking for a gap in the market is always a good idea, but you should also focus upon doing what you love, as this is key to enjoying your day-to-day life. You should also plan well, but don’t be afraid to take risks. Good luck making your new business a success!
I like that you put “do what you love” into the list. Mostly, people talk about the dry part of the business, but putting your feelings into what you do is just as important. You will work harder if you do what you love, and the profit will increase.
Great article, very informational and full. Thanks, Rich, you really inspire me to try and open something on my own.
John, Ivy, thank you! Some planning, ambitions, and commitment will help you reach new heights!
How can I plan a budget if I’m not sure what to expect? What if there are some unexpected surprises?
Helen, put those surprises into the budget then. Just add this point to the list, and you’ll have some extra money left for any circumstances. If something happens, the company will be prepared, and if nothing happens, you’ll have spare finances at the end of the season/year/etc.