Starting a new business, is not a magical or mystical process. Many people think that starting a business is unrealistic or too demanding of their time. Some just do not know where to begin or in what field to begin in. If you are a person with the desires to be your own boss, and embark on a passion that you’ve had for many years, there is no reason not to. Stop saying “I can’t!” and start saying, “I can!” By the end of this article, you will understand the ways to develop an idea for a business and how to take action on it.

Starting the Idea Process: As an English major, I have always approached all idea driven developments by one simple method; Pen & Paper! I have learned throughout the years that writing is the key to success, no matter what the goal is. What is needed at the beginning of every process is a brainstorm. Brainstorming is a great way to pour your opinions and concepts onto a paper, and make the necessary adjustments for satisfaction. Now that you have a pen and paper, let’s begin. At the top of the page, write: “About Me.” There is no way to figure out what business idea will work for you, unless you have given a comprehensive and efficient look at yourself as a person, and at your abilities and likes, therefore, this why we are starting the process to start a business with a focus on you.

About Me!

As we start our journey into self concept, we are to begin assessing many of the most critical questions you can ask yourself, truthfully. Label your paper from 1 through 10. At number one, List six things that you are good at or like to do. This includes hobbies, current involvements, and perhaps, things that you find interest in, but never found the time to do so. Here are some examples: I love kids, I love to read, I enjoy cooking, and I love the arts even though I have little time to take pleasure in them. Let’s move on. At question two, list six things that you either absolutely hate or just dislike. Or even things that you are not good at, even if you had ALL the time in the world to participate in. (lol, hey, not everything is for everyone!) You might write related elements and aspects of what you wrote for the things you love. For example, you might have written, in the first question, I am good at developing advertising concepts, but for question two, you might put, I hate to speak in public, or face-to-face with people. Just jot down the first things that come to mind. Does your page look like mine?

About me!

1.I love to Read, I love children, I am a writer, I am excellent at presentations and public speaking, and I am good at accounting and mathematics.
2.I hate outdoor events (like hiking), I am not good at any instruments, I tend to work alone, I do not like to commute to work, I do not like the winter, (sorry, I could only think of five things, its okay if you did too!)

Now, I will leave the rest of the questions in your hands.
3.List two products or services that will better your business life, or allow you to embark on a business.
4.What do you do? (your current occupation or your last occupation)
5.List six or seven things you enjoy about your current occupation or last occupation
6.List six or seven things you dislike about your current occupation or last occupation
7.If someone had to describe you, what five terms would they use?
8.What traits do others like about you the most?
9.List other skills that you possess, that are not in current use.

And finally, number ten. What would you like to accomplish when staring your business, other than being financially independent?

Now, re-read your page, and sigh in relief, because one of the hardest parts of the process had been done. You now have a basis and a foundation in which you can adjust and mold into your very own Business Idea page. Look through your answers carefully and with an open-mind. For these answers hold the key that will unlock the doors of ideas.

Here are the top ten business ideas for 2008:

1.Graphic Design/Web design
2.Children’s Tutor
3.Dessert and Wine restaurants and cafés
4.Party Planner/Event Planner
5.Pet Sitter
6.Specialty Coach
7.Debt Collection Agency
8.Plus-Size Fashion
9.Marketing/Advertising firm
10.Niche Gym

Special thanks to Giselle Rivera at Eliteresumes.org for todays contribution.

* If you’d like to contribute as a writer to Obzokee.com, please visit us at: http://www.obzokee.com/write-for-us/