In all cases, I agree with you – support is key… and the realization that it’s a process and doesn’t have to be achieved overnight. I started in 1997 with a dream to work at home full time and it took me until 2004 to quit my day job. I was the sole bread winner in our family at the time with small kids, so it doesn’t have to be that long for everyone.

The motivating factor is that you can potentially do so much better financially on your own than working for a pay check. A bigger factor for me however, was the freedom. I get the kids up, make them breakfast and drive them to school. I pick them up in the afternoon. I bring them their lunch when they forget it.. ha ha.

My wife works part time out of the home and my freedom allows her to not have to run ragged like so many working women are because their husbands are gone 50 hours a week.

Whether you are man or a women, there is so much free online information as you mentioned that in the beginning, just a steady commitment to do some research is all you need to get started. Thanks for a great article!

I think I’ll dust that book off and give it a fresh read.

That is one of the reasons that I recommend Think and Grow Rich so highly – because it truly helps you make your goals tangible and starts that fire within… And everyone who has read it has agreed.

Just like with anything in life, you have to *make* it happen.

My husband and I have been working from home for the past 3 years…while we’ve had our share of highs and lows, we’re managing well. We take our kids to the park several days a week, I take naps during the day with my kids, and I’m able to just pick up and go shopping with my mom, sisters or aunt anytime I want and take my time! Something I never got to do working in the corporate world which I did for MANY years.

Working at home certainly presents its own challenges, but watching my kids blossom before my eyes is priceless. Determining what I want to do and not having a boss tell me otherwise is also nice…when I make a mistake, I know I can fix it. I like being in control of my own destiny.

As for the insurance thing, that was a huge consideration before leaving my JOB, but two babies later (one covered under our self-insurance plan and the other paid for out of pocket), it doesn’t pay to stay in a situation you don’t really want. I’m a huge fan of HSA (health savings accounts)…you just need to be disciplined in contributing to it (just like your online business ).

Lynn, I’ve sent several people to your forum recently who have expressed an interest in working online…what an AWESOME resource. Just this past Sunday a couple expressed a sincere interest in starting an online business and we exchanged phone numbers to talk more about it. It certainly takes a certain “breed” to work from home, by that I mean it’s not for everyone…it DOES take work and self-discipline. But my philosophy has always been, EVERYthing is learnable if you want to learn it. If you want it (and are willing to back that desire up with work & determination), you can get it. Just don’t ever, ever, ever quit! Even if you mess up, as long as you don’t quit, you will succeed. Be willing to learn from others and take some risks and you will succeed.

My #1 recommendation for anyone starting their own business is “association”…just like you said. You need support…hook up with someone who’s been there and can help you in the right direction. Going solo is NOT the way to go.

Anyway, great post…and great comments! Happy 4th to everyone!

Thats a common reason that I hear too, Mila. But honestly, anything great in life takes a serious investment of time and energy. Any major change, any business start-up, etc.

And really, its an exciting time once that energy gets rolling and you know you are doing something great – and have a strong vision for the future.

Its tough to see people unhappy (or even just complacent) and unwilling to do anything about it – other than to complain…

Great post, and I agree what a lovely little daughter you have.

I would love to have a daughter. Though dobt my boys want a little sis!

Hope all is well with you.

Take care.

Rob

She wants to change her life but isn’t prepared to put in the work. And online business is hard work, especially at the beginning. You really have to want it enough to keep going and make it work.