There's "Do I want to lose security of my job" stage. So many people still think that their job is secure. Well -- newsflash -- no job is secure. You can be terminated at any time. So working for someone else only gives you a "false sense of security," no real security. The only real security you have for you and your family, if you have one, is what you do. Owning your own business is one way of creating a secure future, for yourself, and your family. This is time to start thinking about running your own business, when you are working, not when you've been fired.

The next stage after a job is lost is "Should I look for another job or try to start my own business, and if I start my own business, what do I do". Again, it would have been better to start your business while working, so that you had time to build your business and then move out of your job into your own business. But, if you lose your job before that happens, you can try and start your own business. However, I would suggest having some kind of job, if only part-time, that you can put more hours in, if you have to.

The hardest part at this stage is realization that no one but you cares about your job loss and your financial problems. People might say they are sorry, but life goes on. In fact, during this time, you often find out who your real friends are.

You need to take a long, critical look at yourself, decide where your strong and weak points are, what are your interests, and what type of business do you want to operate.

Some steps that might help are:

1. Get an idea - assess your skills, interests, and experience. Is something missing in your town? What products or services would make your life, and that of your friends', family's and neighbors' easier?

2. Assess your needs - How much money do you want to make? What type of work do you want to do? What type of lifestyle do you want?

3. Pick part-time or full-time. Do you have enough money to start full time? Could your business work part time, or would it require your full time presence?

4. Define your niche, narrower better. Write a brief mission statement that explains your niche. For example - co-operative lease purchasing for homeowners with expired listings.

Our best advise is to come up with several names, test them out on friends and family before you even do a name search. Once you have narrowed it down to 1 to 3 names then do your name search. Remember, if you decide to become a corporation you will need to search corporate records also. Check with your local County Clerk's office.

Zoning and Licensing

Unlike many years ago when starting a home-based business was very novel, and in many areas of country there were many restrictions; today is different. However, depending on kind of business you are going to operate you should check your local zoning and licensing requirements. The county section of your yellow pages is place to start.

Sole Proprietorship, Incorporation or LLC

You want to choose a legal framework that best suits your business needs. What this means is are you going into business alone or with others, and in what capacity. There is no universal right choice. Check out all options and then decide which best suits your needs.