Starting your own home-based business can be a very wonderful yet scary thought. I remember pouring over tax id forms and licensing information and thinking "What am I getting myself into?" Then I started to do my "homework" and realized I was not alone. I joined several online forums that related to the industry I was interested in. I bounced ideas off of other members to get feedback and learned from their mistakes.

Here are some things I have learned along the way to guide you through this important step in your life:

1) Go at your own pace. If things are moving too quickly and you are feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and reevaluate your process.

2) Choose something you enjoy doing and or believe in. You are not going to get as far with your business if you do not feel comfortable selling them.

3) Get your family involved. Even if it is something as simple as putting stamps on envelopes they will enjoy being a part of your business. (Plus it is a nice way to spend extra time together!)

4) Check with your local and state agencies to ensure you follow all the right steps to setting up your business.

5) Check out your local competition. If you are trying to break into an already saturated local market, your journey can be much harder that someone starting out with a fresh, new idea.

6) Get help. If you have a question ask until you get the information you need.

7) Use the Internet. There are many helpful sources on the web that can help you thought the process. I personally found the Small Business Administration a good source. (http://www.sba.gov/)

8) Work within your budget. Clearly define and stick to a strict start up budget. It is very easy to get in over your head and feel as though you cannot succeed.

9) Write down your goals and set dates to achieve them by. Monitor them throughout the process and reevaluate as necessary.

10) ADVERTISE!

Whatever type of business you decide to try your hand at…give it 110% of your efforts. You will go much farther if you put lots of hard work and your heart into it. Best of luck to you!

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Jenn Shirey
Owner
AbundaScents