It’s never easy to come back from a career setback; whether you’ve just been laid off, been part of a system of changes at work that affected your job, or received a negative performance review, you might be thinking about the best way to move forward. If you’re unhappy with your current position, the answer might lie in striking out on your own and doing what makes you happy. Starting your own business is never easy, and it will take plenty of planning and preparation, but if you’re truly unhappy with your job it might be the best thing you’ll ever do.
Here are some of the best tips on how to start your own business and forge your own path.
Take time off
If it’s possible, take some time off to focus on your mental and emotional health and think about your next move. Big career changes can have an effect on your mood, your sleep cycle, and even your relationships, so taking a little break to re-prioritize can be a huge help before you make a decision about what comes next.
Talk to someone
If you know someone who has had a similar experience, talk to them to find out how they handled it. You may be feeling a mix of overwhelming emotions, such as anger, betrayal, or sadness, or your self-esteem may have taken a hit. It’s always helpful to speak to someone who has been through it and get another perspective.
Think about your goals
If you want a big change from your previous job, it’s important to figure out what your goals are and define what you want from your next move. Make a list of all the things you want, and include the things you don’t want as well. If you’re looking for more money, more security, or a chance to make a difference in others’ lives, write down ideas on how to make it happen.
Learn how to focus
Getting easily distracted or engaging in activities that keep you from doing your best work–staying up too late, drinking excessively, or not taking care of your health–can keep you from being successful. Learn how to focus and how to be mindful, which can be achieved through activities like yoga or meditation.
Think about the next step
If you think you’re ready to consider starting your own business, think about what company would be the best fit for you. If you have a service to offer, such as tutoring or accounting, you can start pretty easily by creating a social media presence and advertising. If your business would require physical items–for instance, if you’re crafty and want to create your own online shop to sell jewelry, clothing, or furniture–do some research to find out what your overhead will be. Figuring out the costs to startup your business is the first step towards making a new career move.
You’ll also need to check out your local competition and look online to see what others are doing in the field you want to go into. Comparing prices and company policies will help you decide what to stick to and what to avoid.