Damien posted and? today. It reminded me of a book (Wake up and change your life) I’ve read by Duncan Bannatyne of Dragons Den* fame.
Specifically The Barriers that prevent us from starting that business:
I don’t have the time
Lose the TV. If you really want to start a business you will find the time.
I don’t have any money
Sell your stuff on eBay. Start with the TV!
Also keep start up costs to a minimum (Fail fast – Fail small)
I can’t afford a drop in salary
Start saving now: Move as much of your monthly salary away from current account into a savings account. Reduce your outgoings: Get rid of Sky sports. Rent out a room. Go without: Skip a few seasons of fashion. Give up/reduce cigs and drinking.
I can’t risk throwing away my career
Is your current job really THAT secure? Try to keep the door open to return if things go pear-shaped.
My partner doesn’t support me
They may have a valid point but do try the “If I don’t try it now I’ll always regret it”. Otherwise if you really believe in your idea lose ‘em.
I don’t have the experience
Who does have all the experience at the early stage? You have to START somewhere.
I don’t have the qualifications
How many “I left school when I was 14..15..16.. etc” millionaires are out there. (Hint: LOTS)
*I have mentioned Dragons Den before. Watching programs like DD and The Apprentice is a great way of helping avoid many pitfalls out there.
9 Responses
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10:25 am
Great post Joe.
Another one for me was: “now isn’t the right time”. But, what if there’s never a “right” time; instead you have to look back with regret some day having not done what you’ve always wanted to do.
12:12 pm
Never be afraid to try something new.
Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark.
A large group of professionals built the Titanic.
3:30 pm
Excellent post Joseph.
Also I think one shouldn’t be concerned by what others think of them. You’d get nothing done if you were worried about what the ole ones were saying about you after Mass.
8:28 pm
Biggest one for me is the ‘throwing away career” one. Not that climbing the greasy software development pole is the greatest for job satisfaction ultimately, but it does give some sense of security. However nothing ventured, nothing gained; no job is secure any more and with good thought and planning even that fear can be overcome..
11:59 pm
I can!
Good post, thanks
1:06 pm
Fantastic post Jospeh!
Must keep watching the Den myself…
11:45 pm
Haha – love Grannymar’s comment. Now I know I hid my cojones somewhere, and soon as I find them I’m ON it! Good post, Joe, and thanks for the inspiration.
3:34 pm
This is a great post! Thanks man.
Continuing the Discussion