Taking the Leap: Starting Your Own Business

Starting a business is like standing on the edge of a diving board. You've climbed the ladder, your heart is pounding, and the water below looks both inviting and intimidating. Taking that leap can feel exhilarating, terrifying, and deeply personal all at once.

I know, because I've stood there too—metaphorically speaking. The decision to start your own business is never one-size-fits-all. It's a moment of clarity, a culmination of dreams, or sometimes just a nudge when you least expect it. For me, it was a mix of all three. And then it is the inevitable fear you have when you've taken the leap before you start to swim.  That feeling of free fall is the most terrifying and exhilarating you will ever feel in your professional life.  I promise it will get worse.  I also promise it will get better.  

The Spark

For many, the journey begins with an idea. Maybe you see a gap in the market, or perhaps you're passionate about a particular skill or service. Whatever it is, that spark ignites a fire within you. You start daydreaming about possibilities and imagining what life could look like if you worked for yourself. The thought lingers, grows, and eventually demands action.

But here's the thing: Ideas are easy. Execution is where the magic happens. It's where your vision meets reality and challenges you to think beyond the daydream.

The Fear Factor. 

Let's be honest—fear is a huge part of this process. What if it doesn't work out? What if you fail? What if you take the leap and it is a massive success and you do not know how to handle it? What if you experience imposter syndrome and you have no idea how or why you are experiencing success? What if...?These questions can paralyze even the most confident dreamers. They can also be never-ending, especially if you cannot find a way to look beyond the what ifs to the success. 

When I first considered taking the leap, fear was my constant companion. I'd replay worst-case scenarios in my mind like a broken record. But then I realized something: fear can either be a roadblock or a motivator. Instead of letting it stop me, I started asking, “What's the worst that could happen?” When I really thought it through, I realized that most of my fears were manageable—and some were even opportunities in disguise.

The Planning Stage

This is where your vision starts to take shape. Business plans, budgets, market research—all the nitty-gritty details that turn an idea into a viable business. It's not glamorous, but it's essential. Think of it as building the foundation for your new venture.

When I was preparing, I spent countless hours outlining my goals, defining my target audience, and crunching numbers. Was it tedious? Absolutely. Was it worth it? Without a doubt. A solid plan gave me the confidence to move forward—and something to lean on when things got tough.

Taking the Leap

There's no perfect time to start a business. Life will always throw curveballs, and there's no guarantee of success. But at some point, you have to trust yourself and take the plunge.

For me, that moment came when I realized that staying in my comfort zone was no longer an option. I knew I'd regret not trying more than I'd regret failing. So, I jumped—and yes, the water was cold at first. But I learned to swim, and the freedom was worth every initial shiver.  It was also born out of necessity.  If you listen to our podcasts, you will know that there was no other option for me but to open my business.  It required me to be brave whether I felt brave or not. It required that I become the person who could open a business and make it a success.  The person who figured it out.  Who said I can and will make this a success.  

The Reward

Starting a business isn't easy. It's a rollercoaster of highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. But it's also one of the most rewarding journeys you can take. The sense of ownership, the ability to shape your own path, and the thrill of seeing your vision come to life are unmatched.

If you're standing on that diving board, take a deep breath. Trust your instincts, do your homework, and then… jump. You'll never know what's possible until you do.

Your future self might just thank you for being brave enough to take the leap.

I am not going to sugarcoat it, I take the leap every year, month, year and day.  I have to make the decision to continue to own this business, grow this business and make it amazing every single day.  it is not easy but I promise it is worth it.