Why Aren't You Your Own Boss?: Leaping Over the Obstacles That Stand Between You and Your Dream

I bought this book at a used book store a few years ago because I was intrigued with the concept of starting my own small business. I was (and still am) a young, budding entrepreneur. I despised the 9-5 daily grind that seemed to be sucking the life out of me each day and longed to have something of my own where I could eventually have financial freedom. I've read many business books for inspiration, insight and motivation and this one still remains (after almost 4 years), the most important book in my library- even over the small business textbook I own from taking a class at the University. I have found with these kinds of books that they are really "hit or miss." The importance of the information you read in these books is subjective and cannot help everyone equally, but this is one of the most thorough books I have read on preparing to start your own business- whether it home-based or whatever. It charged me up and kept me inspired consistently, and if I lost faith or put too many obstacles in my mental path along the way, this book was right there to talk me down and knock out any negative thinking. This book is ultimately what helped push me over the edge and start my own successful small business over 2 years ago. I've grown 50% in the past 12 months and I keep this book at my side at all times. I would recommend it to anyone considering starting a business- or even those who are afraid to take risks in their daily life- it has changed my life forever.

The three authors of this book have written at least 19 books on business between themselves. I have a feeling they may know what they are talking about. The book focuses on what you need to do to start your own business. It covers the main excuses most people use as to why they have not started their own business yet, and what you can do about it. Lack of money? Lack of health care? bad economy? I'm scared? There is a way around all of these issues and the authors talk about each of them and more. One section in the book I liked was "what if I want to start a business but do not know what kind of business I want to start?" I did the exercise listed in that chapter and came up with two good ideas that I had never thought about before. Now I need to follow the book and put them into action.

I am very happy with the book! It really inspired me. It took me less than a week to read the whole thing.

Paul and Sarah Edwards founded the Working From Home Forum on CompuServe back in 1983 (that's 20 years ago, folks!) and they have been going strong ever since! Not only were they the first to spell out the necessary steps to start and run your own home business, but they have also proven to be the far and away leading mentors in pursuing a dream to become your own boss. They meticulously detail steps you need to take, questions to honestly ask yourself, and strategies to ensure your success. And, as with every book they have written, they include many interviews with people who have gone through the rigors of self-employment and pass along advice to those just starting out.If you are serious about finding out if you can make it on your own, then this is the book to start with!