Day zero. This very date 10 years ago, I drove into work, notice letter in hand with butterflies. No turning back now. Months of thought, second thoughts, planning and preparation were now leading to my first day on my own. My second child had just been born (now 10 too). There really is no ‘right’ time to start a business. But if you ponder for too long, I promise you it was yesterday.

Concerns about learning new skills, finding clients, the time and energy investment required and more. People said, so you’re going freelance. No, I’m starting a business I said, even if it was only me to start off with. That makes a big difference to your mindset, believe me. Global domination was never the aim, but a smaller agency of smart thinkers making a discernible difference, much more my cup of (Yorkshire) tea!

If you’re actively thinking of starting an agency, do it. If you’re actively thinking about learning a new skill or furthering your studies, do it. If you’re actively thinking of changing the course of your career, do it. If the fear and excitement of making that leap keeps you awake at night, really do it. Now will be the time!

If you are actively thinking of trying something new and awesome, here’s a few (10, why not) of my personal tips and experiences just in case you need that final nudge!

• Don’t over think it. If it feels right, it probably is
• Do then think it through thoroughly (OK, a contradiction). But like any good planner will tell you, developing your strategy and proposition is vital
• Be comfortable being uncomfortable. Feel the fear and do it anyway (a good book by the way).
• Look around you. Who is doing and saying what? And how will you be different? Or better? Or both
• Be true to yourself. You’re the one who will have to stand up in meetings (old school), talking about your new business with purpose and passion. Do what you believe in. Do what makes you feel happy. And of course, do what you’re good at!
• Identify a need for your product or service, identify who you’ll talk to about it first. Be working on your business before it officially starts. Even better, find a client or two that will work with you from day one
• Write a business plan. Doesn’t have to be perfect. Things will likely change in your first week. But you need a foundation point
• Get your admin sorted. A place to (go to) work, even if it’s your kitchen, dedicate a space.  A digital presence to be found. A plan for invoicing and cost management (I learnt the hard way). And get yourself a decent logo and identity. You’ll really enjoy that bit
• Know that Henry Ford (purportedly of the faster horse) was right. “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right”. Which one are you?
• Finally, take a deep breath, smile, and get stuck in. No time like the present.