SA: So, let's say someone's been out of work a while, has no idea what they want to do, but they know they can't just keep doing what they're doing. What are the first action steps they should take?
RW: Step 1: Define your business based on your passion. Your passion clarifies what you want to truly accomplish and energizes you to move forward. It fills you with the confidence that "You can do it!" And it helps develop a support team. It gets others excited about your idea.
SA: But suppose they say, "I don't know what I'm passionate about." How can they find out?
RW: I hear that all the time. They are looking for the magic answer. It truly comes from your intent. What I have people do is follow 3 rules. These 3 rules really help "them define" what they want to do:
- Speak from your passion - Just brainstorm on things that connect to your soul. What have you always wanted to do? Everyone has a dream locked inside them -- let it out. Then,
- Listen to others - Tell them about your dream. They have contacts, ideas, thoughts, and ways to help you shape it to make it a reality.
- Write it down - When it gets written down it becomes real. Then you will be able to change it (and be willing to change it). Writing it down makes you a doer rather then a dreamer.
SA: Let's say someone's figured out their passion, but they have little or no assets with which to start the business. Not every great business idea starts generating positive cash flow day one. What if they still need to make a living while they're starting their business?
RW: Then they should "fund their dream." Stay in their jobs and find time to work on their idea. Even if it is 15 minutes a day or a week, wonderful things will happen. And when you speak from your passion - you inspire others to help. You never know who has contacts, or money to help.
SA: Consistency is the key to that, right?
RW: Yes! And once again - belief in self. I tell people to go to their jobs everyday and say, "Thank you for funding my dream." It changes your attitude at work and at home. I ask people to make a list of their living expenses and try to cover those at least so they are not looking over their shoulders for the next dollar.
