Self-employment is about freedom

By Crystal Dallner, Outright Communications

Starting a home-based business can offer an exceptional lifestyle and be very self-fulfilling. It allows people to take control of their daily lives and their futures. But even with all this freedom - why isn't everyone working from home?

According to Crystal Dallner, "many individuals miss the regular paycheck, the interaction with co-workers and the opportunity of bouncing ideas off of other employees." While benefits of working from home include flexibility, time with family, tax write offs and the ability to design their own business, it can offer challenges.

A steady flow of income, clients and branding may take some time to establish. By staying at a full time corporate job for six months, a reserve of income can be accumulated to live off before the business takes off and business building can be done in the evenings and on weekends. If it is possible, live off one spouse's income so more time can be spent to build the new business. Getting by on less income for a short time can be accomplished by using cost-cutting measures such as decreasing the amount of eating outside the home and consolidating all debts.

A third of small businesses fail within the first year and an estimated 80% of businesses fail within three to five years. As this may be a frightening statistic, there are many home-based success stories. The difference between success and failure in business is in careful planning, researching and management. With a good product or service in place, a business plan and some clever marketing, anyone can make a living by working from home.

With no more daily commute or pressures of the nine-to-five routine, one can enjoy a healthier and productive lifestyle, more free time and the capability of raising their own children.

As there is minimal start up costs associated with opening a small business, it can offer a rewarding career. Say goodbye to corporate life and say hello to the comfort of working from home.

Crystal Dallner is the founder of Outright Communications, a cost-effective marketing firm. For all your publicity, marketing and design needs and a no-cost consultation visit online at www.outrightcommunications.com or call (780) 406-8045.