Starting your Own Business, Should you?

Is it a good idea to start your own business?

Listen, if you have a skill set that you can monetize, and I know you do, it’s a good idea to start your own business. And, before you tell me that it’s impossible, and that you won’t be able to cover your bills, remember this: nothing in life that’s worth it comes easy.  So plant the seeds for your own business outside of the time you are working at your full-time job,

Of course I may be biased. I have an entrepreneurial spirit and I am now running a successful business. But from my perspective, I can tell you about the advantages of owning your own business. It can be summed up in one word: freedom.

• Freedom to make your own schedule
• Freedom to take vacation when you want
• Freedom to go and get yourself a raise
• Freedom to enjoy life most important moments (for me it’s family time)

Let me warn you. You must have structure and discipline. If you work from home, make sure you are dedicated to work. No watching “Wendy Williams” or catering to all of your child’s requests. “Mommy is working,” I’ve had to remind my sons when I worked from a home office in my earlier days.

In addition to working hard and balancing your schedule to work in the business as well as working on the business, make sure you are still networking and maintaining relationships.

Time and time again, I tell people you want to surround yourself with people you look up to, magnetic types, people who make you feel good. No one has all the answers in business, so entrepreneurs can help each other. Join a co-working space. Get out to events. But make sure you do not stay in your own little work.

Be outgoing. You never know when an interaction will lead to a business deal.

And, of course, don’t forget the tax benefits of owning your own business.

Karla Dennis

As seen in Forbes Magazine, Karla Dennis is an expert tax and business strategist. As an enrolled agent, Karla is licensed to represent taxpayers in all 50 states. She holds a Masters in Taxation and Business Development and is the author of two books, Tax Storm and Against the Odds.

Karla, CEO of consultancy firm Karla Dennis And Associates, Inc.™, has saved her clients thousands of dollars and has been featured in various media outlets such as Forbes, MSNBC, KTLA, Yahoo! Finance, and SmartMoney, marking her as the ultimate tax expert.

As of 2014, Karla became the new host on the “Mind Your Business” radio show, KTLK AM 1150, sharing her financial and business knowledge with the greater Orange County and Los Angeles areas. As a supporter of women’s rights and issues, Karla is part of the Women Network, an organization built to educate and mentor women. In addition, Karla is the radio host for Women Network Radio, a show that aims to uplift and empower women of all walks of life.