Are you exceptional in the skills needed to distinguish yourself from other similar businesses? Did you make a career change, or were downsized and need to provide a living for yourself, even if in another field? Do you want to educate, consult, or connect to others in a beneficial manner for them and for you? Were you prepared for all that a small business owner must know and daily do?

Each of those reasons are valid, but it is important before you jump into the high-risk arena of owning a small business that you understand what inspires and motivates you. For me, I have two career paths. Each had a different motivation.

Once upon a time, both led me to believe I wanted fame. That lasted until social media made targets of people in the limelight. Making lots of money is admiral but it has never been my motivator.

As a journalist who has owned an international dance & culture magazine, co-owned a film/TV/commercial industry newsletter, and written for magazines, radio and TV, my goal was to be accurate and present facts to inform. I was a widow at 26 without insurance, and a four-year- old to raise. I wanted to have a home-based business so I could be there for her when needed, and to make enough money to keep us fed, clothed and sheltered.

I achieved my goals. My magazine became the leading award-winning journal of its kind for 14years because I presented stories, photos, and information not found elsewhere.

What I had not considered is that even though my career as a journalist and editor was established, I had never been prepped for how to turn my skills into a business. I can’t say I failed (even though I didn’t know what I didn’t know) because at the end of the day, I had a thriving publication, paid my bills, raised my daughter and taught her how to succeed in a home- based business (which proved valuable in her later jobs), and along the way, connected with people who mentored and guided my journey of being a business owner.

I “fell into” my other career, that of a psychic entertainer for corporate and social events. Yes, my family background provided gifts, but it was a meandering path to Disney, which set me up as a professional psychic for events. That long connection gave me credibility and an invaluable positive reputation, one that has been nurtured through all my 22+ years as a member of Meeting Professionals International. My ability to transition from entertainer to business owner has been strengthened by the years as a member of MPI’s small business community.

My motivation as a psychic is not to be the “be all, end all, know-it-all” but to connect to those I read and to know I have made a positive impact. I provide witty insights about personalities, relationships and making life better. My reward at the end of each event is that I can point to at least one person I met and know they were the reason I was there. Sometimes it’s a hug, or a reassuring word of hope or to honor their value, but I gain as much from it as I give.

So, the question I leave you with is: why do you own your business? Your truths will be the path that comforts, supports and compels you forward to success and personal joy.