At some point in our careers, we feel the urge to make a change. Maybe it’s going for a role with more leadership or taking on more responsibility. Some people are eager for a job that is meaningful and filled with purpose. And still, others find a job that encompasses both — leadership and purpose — by starting their own small business.
ADHD adults and young adults often value the flexibility and independence (not taking direction from anyone but themselves), are often moved to consider starting a business or self-employment.
Your ADHD shouldn’t prevent you from starting your own business.
If you have ADHD and are contemplating starting a business, you can and should go for it — ADHD should not discourage you from chasing your dreams, and in fact, it could actually be a boon to your entrepreneurial journey. Many well-known business leaders, including Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson and Ikea founder Ingvar Kamprad, have the condition, and both say that their ADHD played a pivotal role in their success.
Still, it’s wise to pull in help for areas you know aren’t your strong suits or that you simply don’t want to take the lead on. Don’t hesitate to hire other professionals you can delegate these types of tasks to. For example, you might feel more comfortable handing off management of daily operations to someone who is neurotypical while you focus on bringing your big-picture ideas to life. It’s also helpful to hire a business or career coach who can provide insight and support as you build your company — especially if this individual has ADHD and can relate to the challenges you’ll need to overcome on your new venture! If you’re ready to get going on developing your new business, contact Shell Mendelson of Career Coaching with Shell. She’s helped over a thousand individuals reach their goals in her over 30-year career, and she can help you find success too.
Before you even consider a career “pivot” to starting a business, make sure you are clear and focused about what you are offering and that the day-to-day work you will do in the business is consistent with what you truly enjoy. Make certain that your business aligns with every aspect of what will make up your ideal work. For more on this topic, peruse the many articles on the subject of defining your next career move here.
So, why not take all the passion and energy you used to make another company successful and put it toward making your own successful business? It’s a lot of work, but it’s also very rewarding. Here are a few ideas to help you get the ball rolling, brought to you by Career Coaching with Shell.
Expand your horizons.
It’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed about a new business venture, but there are things you can do to improve your confidence, skills and knowledge base. There is a wealth of opportunity right at your fingertips, via the web. Plug into some business podcasts, read some blogs, even take courses at an accredited university. The deeper your knowledge about business, the better off you’ll be.
Create your business idea.
Look beyond just your professional life for your business idea, which hopefully solves a problem. Problem-solving is one skill ADHD folks have in abundance. Then come up with a business plan, a name, and branding. Also consider your hobbies, interests and volunteer activities. These areas could also help you come up with an idea for a business. For example, those that love working out could consider a personal trainer certification. People who enjoy making their own clothes could open an e-commerce store.
Include your network in your journey.
In addition to setting goals and plotting out your path, don’t forget to rely on the vast network you have created over the years. Remember, the people you already know could help position you to make this endeavor a successful one. And as Indeed points out, those connections can fuel your ideas and help shape your direction.
Purchase equipment to get started.
You have your business idea ready, now it’s time to think about the tools you need for success. In many cases, you might need a computer and specific software. For those creating and selling goods, you will need supplies and space to make your items. For those selling services, you might need equipment that customers can use while working with you. Some general examples of tools you might need include:
- A website and a social media page.
- A license, certification or permit to work in a certain area or field.
- A professional space for working with clients.
- Bookkeeping and payroll software.
Put yourself out there – for introverts too!
Regardless of your business idea, there is one element every business owner needs — marketing. You will need to advertise your services or products. Start with your closest friends and family. Ask them to help you with word of mouth.
Also, use your social media account to tell your wider acquaintance what you’re doing now, with clear instructions on how they can hire you or buy your product. You might even hire a marketing agency to expand your outreach, increase customer engagement, and improve your presence online.
Focus on funding.
It’s cliche, but true — to make money you have to spend money. Even with the chance of getting your business up and running without a lot of capital, you will need to have some funds to keep things moving forward. If you have some savings, consider how much you will pull from that and how much you will pull from credit cards. Keep in mind that you are likely to need money to support yourself and, maybe, your family while you get your startup going. In addition to your own funds, you can bring in cash for your startup by:
- Downsizing your lifestyle to free up more income, like moving to a smaller house or selling your car.
- Asking friends and family if they will support you (be prepared to show them a business plan)
- Applying for loans specifically for small businesses.
- Reaching out to potential investors.
- Applying for small business grants, which are often available for veterans and minorities.
History is rife with examples of people who lost their jobs, started up their own thing while in a white-knuckle panic, and made a million. While going into business for yourself is a great deal of work up front, it can pay off in spades.
Connect with Career Coaching with Shell for more ideas, information and inspiration that can help you make your startup dreams come true!