Small Business
Idea: Make it something you love
It
all begins with the small business idea. How do you begin? What do you
do? One of best ways to begin the process of identifying your
successful small business idea is to take out a sheet of paper, and
write across the top "Things About Me". Then begin to identify about
five to seven things that you like to do or that you're really good at.
Your small business idea list might include things like; "I really like
to work with animals",” I am good with people”, "I love computers" etc.
Just begin writing down what comes to mind without giving it a whole lot
of thought. When you have completed this part of your small business
idea list, number the items down one side of the paper.
Your small business
idea list should also include things that you do not like to do, or are
not very good at. On the other side of this same paper list these
things. Maybe you're intimidated by the thought of marketing or meeting
new people, or you are not really fond of working with children or
public speaking. Don't overanalyze these things; just write down your
thoughts. Your small business idea does not have to emerge immediately.
When you're finished with these two lists draw a line underneath them,
and then ask yourself: "If there were three to five products or services
that would make my personal life better, what would they be?” Your
personal life in this context, refers to your roles as a father,
husband, wife, daughter etc. Your small business idea may be products or
services that would make your life easier or happier, more productive,
efficient or simply give you more time.
Next, in order to
find a really good small business idea, ask yourself these same
questions about your business life. Ask yourself what you like and
dislike about your work and what traits others seem to appreciate in
you. Finally, ask yourself why you want to begin this business in the
first place. Look for patterns that may emerge (i.e. whether there is a
small business idea, doing one of the things that you like or are good
at, or that will simply make your life easier).
Another good way to
get excellent small business ideas is to listen to others talk about
their problems and frustrations. Opportunities and small business ideas
are all around you. You just need to pay attention, with these thoughts
in your mind (mind-set) and you will come up with all kinds of excellent
small business ideas. If your mind is always set in this small business
idea mode, you'll be surprised what you will notice as you listen to
others, read, or just look around at your environment. For instance, if
you happen to read an article about lunch hours being reduced for your
average person, you may find a small business idea in those
circumstances.
Now go on to
Lesson
1.2
Small Business Idea: Does it have Legs?
I
nformation from
Start Your Own Business- The
Only Start-Up Book You'll Ever Need
Webpage by Paul Susic MA
Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate CEO/President Susic Psychological
Consulting P.C
