The problem is that the majority of my clients suffering from ADD tend to end up starting a business that capitalizes on their true talents as entrepreneurs.
I must admit that I’ve been arguing about this fact as I do not want to convey the impression that If you’re an ADDer, it is necessary to create your own company. It’s not the case.
But you are more likely that you’ll find your optimal workplace conditions that allow for a large amount of flexibility in terms of your work location as well as the setting you work in most of the working day, and also the hours that you work when capable of working in your own way.
It is also possible that you won’t do your best when you have the micro-manager in your boss or supervisory position or in a workplace with such lots of structure; you should be granted permission to stop for a moment or use the bathroom.
Since a lot of my clients prefer self-employment, I’m going to provide a list of things to take into consideration prior to taking the step. Be aware that these are the first essential steps needed before you can enter the world of entrepreneurship.
1. You’re extremely clear on the direction you are taking.
I cannot even begin to tell you how many times I’ve participated in business-related training courses with other participants who paid an amount of money but did not know a definite business direction. Maybe they believed that their plan would come out in the course of training. However, the reality is that it’s the cart that is ahead of the horse. The first thing I recommend clients do once the business’s direction has been clearly established is to develop a Compelling Vision that reflects their life and business. Without a clear direction, the vision will be fuzzy. Finding a clear path requires a method that involves an exploration of the soul level to reach the direction that is genuinely resonant and gives you the motivation to move forward.
2. You’ve identified your own niche,
which distinguishes you from other people in your business or field space. The process of identifying a niche can be one of the most challenging choices for entrepreneurs who are just starting out. Why? Because it is often a matter of narrowing down to a specific kind of customer, which may seem limited initially. A niche can distinguish you from the other competitors within your industry and will make you more likely to become your own “go for” specialist in one (or two) specific areas. After you have identified your market niche and your company is in place, the door is open to other businesses that aren’t related to your area of expertise. This requires time and dedication; however, the end result is well worth the effort. My specialization has been working with people with ADD, as well as non-ADDers, for more than 20 years. My specialization has led me to many other possibilities and is not only to the incredible professional community of ADD/ADHD.
3. You’re supported by your family and friends, as well as an expert in your career, business, and ADD coach to help guide you.
If you’re on your own, it’s an option for the birds. It’s not going to work. Being supported by relatives and acquaintances is essential not only because the other person trusts you, but also due to the fact that your friends and family are likely to notice that you may have to make some lifestyle changes at the beginning when your company is getting off the starting point. This could mean more family time and less money coming in. On the other hand, working with a coaching professional during this moment is vital to keep the momentum going, keep moving forward, and help you navigate and deal with life’s challenges that could make you lose track.
4. You’re thrilled about the new venture you are embarking on, and you are ready to work may be more complicated than you’ve previously worked.
It is important to remember that you’re having fun as well. It should be obvious, but some individuals may be enticed to jump into business without having the motivation to go after it. This could lead to burnout, insufficient planning, and massive financial loss when there isn’t any genuine enthusiasm behind the business. It is this passion that can make all the work enjoyable and sometimes thrilling. If the ingredients listed above aren’t in place, maybe it’s time to think about it. Whatever you decide to do, take your time and enjoy the ultimate freedom in what you choose to do.
Making the jump to entrepreneurialism could be among the most exciting decisions. If you’re an ADDer, examining the following checklist is crucial. If you’d like to talk about your situation, contact me via email or call me at 830-237-2735, and we’ll set up an appointment to review your situation.
Shell Mendelson, MS, is a Career Counselor as well as an ADD/ADHD career coach. Shell was taught and mentored in-person through Richard Bolles, Master Career Counselor and the author of the book What Color Is Your Parachute, and is identified as a resource over the last two decades in their annual Parachute edition. Shell has assisted thousands of clients in dealing with the challenges of Career ADD and discovering the career that best will fit them perfectly. Shell is recognized as an expert in the field of Career ADD Expert. Her goal and mission are to guide clients to a fulfilling life and help manage the symptoms, and influences every aspect of life beyond the realm of career.
Shell is the co-founder and the former CEO of KidzArt, the world’s largest art education company that has a presence in 28 states and eight countries.