DON'T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB: How to work on being your own boss while still paying the bills

Some people like to working 9 to 5. They enjoy coming into a position, knowing exactly what needs to be done and going home. But for others, they are true entrepreneurs at heart.  They are always looking for the next business to start or come up with a great money making idea. The most challenging part for some of us however is reaching the point where we actually to put our ideas into action. Here are some tips on how start becoming your own boss while still paying your bills!

Find your Passion:

Many people know they don't want to work for someone else, but they're not quite sure what they need to do to work for themselves. There's a couple different ways that you can go about figuring this out. The first and best way, is to find your passion and figure out how to turn it into a career. This is what will ultimately bring you the most happiness and joy while still working full time. The second option would be to take your talents, maybe not so much your passion, but what you excel at and turn that knowledge into a career or consulting position to help others learn to do what your already great at doing. 

Develop a Plan:

You always want to take yourself seriously and set yourself up for success before running off on any idea, regardless of how big or small it may be. Whether it's from baking cupcakes for your friends or trying to start-up a consulting firm, take development and planning of this new business idea seriously. That way if and when it does take off, you'll have the right tools already in place. Simply go online, Google a business plans and write one out. Even if it's just a very simple one-page business plan. Make sure to include a mission statement and before you get any websites or emails, you want to come up with a company name that will last you throughout the growth of your business. This doesn't happen overnight, so make sure to put some time and effort into whatever name you come up with for the business.

Promote Yourself:

Once you have your business name and a general mission statement, it's time to jump onto the social media bandwagon and begin promoting yourself. This is going to be the easiest way for people to find you. However, don't underestimate the importance of word-of-mouth, as it's the best way to promote a company when it's beginning. Since you are still working a full-time job, make sure to tell all of your coworkers, friends and family, as they will help spread the word and you can watch your business grow. 

Discover the best outlet:

Depending on the work that you choose to do, there's always a way to find the best outlet to sell your work. If you are an artist, it could be at an arts and crafts show, if you are a writer, possibly something such as Fiverr or Amazon Kindle would be a good place to start. It's also good to get in touch with other people in your niche and network to see how they’re selling their products.

Work hard but don't stress:

When you need to go into full-time job every day, your head needs to be in the right place to get the job done. With that said, it is important to not over work or stress yourself out regarding your side work. However, both jobs are going to need your full attention. You are definitely going to be tired, however make sure to not overwhelm yourself. It is important to stay focused on your moneymaker well driving business to the job you love. 

Don't give up:

It's going to be very hard at times. There’re going to be nights that you were up entirely too late and days that you just want to stay in. There’re going to be weekend trade shows or conventions that you know you should be at; however, you just want to relax. Whatever you do, don’t give up. Hard work will definitely pay off as will being patient. the patient. So soon as you find your passion make sure to work and making it your career.

By: Megan Nikole
Just a dame in the life
www.megannikole.com