By Jeanie Swisher
Being in business for yourself is tough enough. Running a business solely on your own, however, has it's own set of challenges. You might have to work a little harder, but there is an upside--YOU are the boss.
AN EYE OPENER
I first became aware of the special business challenges of working alone when I considered joining the Amway team. Although Amway has many successful single distributors, a couple has twice the energy to put into the business. A single person has to do the work of two people to accomplish the same amount of business. It's definitely not for everyone.
This particular "eye opener" has kept me from making some poor business choices down the road. Quite simply, I can't do the work of two people and I don't try to do more than I'm capable of doing.
The other side of the coin in being solely employed is that you make "all" the rules. If you want to work late at night or early in the morning, the choice is yours. You can pack up your business and do it at the seashore if you choose. And--you can spend your weekends working on your business. You run the show.
SO MUCH TO DO
Business involves more than products and services and people tend to forget that. We give little thought to all of the maintenance things that are done in a business. Opening and sorting the mail, taking the phone and email messages, going to the post office for mailing packages and buying stamps. Add to this list paying the bills, buying the supplies, and (at the very busy times of the year) doing all of the work. Oh, don't forget taking out the trash, running the sweeper and cleaning the bathroom (Ugh!).
I have run a business alone for eighteen years. I've never been one to shy away from work. And, I'm most happy being at the helm of all the projects. But, only with continual evaluation can I stay on top of everything at all times. At certain times of the year, the stress becomes overwhelming.
NOT FOR ME
The Amway program was not for me. I felt it would have taken over my life doing double work. And this "eye opener" is crucial when you are contemplating being in business for yourself. Honestly looking at what you have to give to the business is a "must" in starting any program.
For many years, "my life was my business" for 60 to 70 hours a week. I worked hard. But I was happy to do it because I was my own boss and I was doing something I loved. Today, I have four businesses and at times, I feel overwhelmed by the continual responsibility. Only with daily evaluation can I stay focused. And, honestly, as much as I love "Making the Rules," there are times when a partner would be welcome to share the load.
I hope this has given you plenty to consider as you begin planning your own business venture. Good luck.
SPECTRUM PUBLISHERS 35 South High Street West Chester, PA 19382 USA www.spectrumpublishers.net
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