I tried to catch on to my profession as an accountant and got a job and got back to work after failing with a startup brand, however, I had to resign. Work was very monotonous, and I truly knew that this profession is not meant for me, 2 months down the line I had to resign as my boss included a rather extreme clause in my contract that would limit me quite significantly if I were to work for another firm, thus protecting his so-called ways of working. Anyway, to cut the story short, I know I'm meant to do my own thing, however, I just can't find the right thing or business idea, and I'm not too sure what my real talent is. I have had a few experts tell me to find my strengths, but it's really confusing. My real passion lies at the intersection of Technology, business, and branding, however, I don't have the necessary skills in design, or in tech for that matter. I love business, and creating new products with designers, but this didn't work out in my previous startup, as i didn't have enough marketing budget which I honestly think is a silly reason to justify my failure, however, the market I got into was very commoditised, hence to beat the competition I would have needed a very deep pocket. Now the question is what do I do next, i have worked with a designer, and have beautiful branding, I just need to find the right industry but I am totally paralyzed when it comes to finding the right niche. Should I go into retail (e-commerce) again or try something new in tech, any ideas, advice, opinions would really be appreciated.
First, congratulations on going the entrepreneurial route! You have a situation that is very common and one that can cause frustration so you're smart to identify it early.
Branding, skills and experience are all external to you. They are the building blocks you use AFTER you've determined the type of business model that would work best for you personally. Here's are the first two steps in how to start:
1. Identify your values. (not strengths - that's external). Values are internal. They are the things that are most important to you. For many entrepreneurs, the values of Freedom, Accomplishment, Creativity, Recognition come to the top of the list. There are no right or wrong answers - only what is important to you.
2. Once you have your values identified, it's important to know your personal style - your way of being in the world. Are you introverted or extroverted? A mixture? (By reading your question I'd say both). Go toward pleasure? Away from pain? Want to help others?
Consider these items above or get a personal style test and values test to know quicker.
3. Once you know who YOU are and what drives you, you must build a business model that can serve what you want to achieve in not just business but life. Do you want to be a solo person doing all the work? Run a large company? Somewhere in between? Online or offline or both? Then compare your intended business model to your values and style answers. Now when you ask the "Should I" questions you'll have a blueprint to help you make the right decisions every time.
Hope that helps.
Answered 9 years ago
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