By Tina O’Conner

Last week’s post focused on a change in employment and encouraging taking a risk.  This week one of the risks to possibly consider is starting your own business.

A wonderful organization that can support you through the entire process is SCORE of Chester County.  SCORE provides one-on-one counseling and workshops to help any business flourish.

Chester County Night School (chestercountynightschool.org) also offers education about beginning a new business venture.

Experience Positive Therapy, LLC in Parkesburg began offering services in 2004 on a part-time basis.  In 2012, I was able to resign from my full-time career to focus solely on providing therapy services to the Parkesburg area.

What an adventure!!  I utilized SCORE twice since 2004 and am so pleased with their insight, guidance, and practical advice.  I learned from the many mistakes that were made.  Mistakes are part of the journey.

Once a month I meet with a group of therapists for supervision regarding our clients.  We also discuss how to market our practices, streamline forms, remember that we have to make money to survive.

Sometimes, that is a difficult concept for therapists who just want to help people have the best quality of life.  It helps to receive feedback from other professionals in the same type of business.

Consider the following:

1.    Set up an appointment with SCORE of Chester County or take a class through Chester County Night School.

2.    Know your audience (especially the location in Chester County).

3.    Develop a budget.

4.    Consider a small business loan from a local bank.

5.    Weigh the pros and cons.

6.    Remember it takes a while (sometimes a few years) to see a profit.

7.    Research your product.

8.    Know what government forms should be completed.

9.    Confide daily in a support person.

10. Take deep breaths.

Remind yourself the outcome of your employment situation does not determine your value and worth.  If you find yourself in a place for change, find a career that you enjoy.

Of course, we all have to pay bills and meet our financial responsibilities. Many of us spend 8-10 hours a day working.  Spend that time wisely.  Always be mindful of the work/life balance.

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Tina L. O’Connor, MS, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a private counseling practice in Parkesburg. Tina attended college in Phoenixville and West Chester. Tina and her husband Doug have three amazing adult stepchildren and two beautiful grandchildren. Tina can be reached at Experience Positive Therapy via telephone at (610) 857-8089 or email at exppostherapy1@verizon.net.

Top photo credit: Leon and Donna via photopin (license)