Why did you start?

[Steve]

Why did you start? I recently read an article talking about the reasons why entrepreneurs start businesses. Two of the big reasons were because they don't like to be told what to do and the other was for money. The author of the article tended to think that those who start because of money tend to do better. What's your view? Why did you get started and which do you think is better?

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[Little's]

Lawn care business tips

All of the above! I worked many different jobs as a youngster and grew up helping my dad in his construction business. In all those jobs I always busted my butt and was told many times by different bosses that my work ethic was top notch. I always felt I was worth more money than what I was getting paid. I always knew I wanted to be my own boss, I just never really knew where to start. I think I knew where to start, but was worried about taking that initial jump, because I did have stuff to lose if I failed. I moved out and rented my first place when I was 17, and had my first child when I was 18. I always wanted it, but the weekly checks where comfort. So when I was 25 and had 2 kids at home, and the 3rd on the way, I was working as store manager at a retail store. Corporate decided to do a market turn over and released everyone and hired all new people. There I was with 2 kids, one on the way, house payment, car payment, etc. etc. My feeling of safety was gone since I couldn't expect any more of the weekly checks. At that point I figured I had to make the jump and sink or swim. I had a lot of moral support from my family, since everyone in my family was self employed one way or another (dad owned construction co., step dad owns portable welding business, mom sells Avon, brother owns IT business), I knew the work was there, I just had to figure out how to get it. I used my unemployment checks to purchase some used equipment, ordered some business cards, started knocking on doors. I was comfortable talking to people, so getting the work was easy. Things have continued to grow from there, and I have had my ups and downs, but for the most part things have been GREAT! One thing I really have enjoyed more than making money, is the freedom to set my own schedule. I no longer have to miss those school plays, or the school games, or parent teacher conferences. That to me was one of the biggest reasons for starting my own business. Family is super important to me. Losing my corporate job was one of the best things to happen to me.

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Northern California

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Last edited by Little's; 10-14-2008 at 08:37 PM. Reason: spelling