How to Start Your Own Business
- dynamicfocusconsul
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 17
Taking your ideas to the next step and making them a reality can be overwhelming. Starting your own business seems like a difficult task, but it's actually a lot easier to get started than you think. We will outline all the steps you need to start your own business.
1. Start With the Right Mindset: Skills Can Be Learned, Grit Cannot
Before we get into the logistics, you need to understand: you don’t need experience to start — but you do need persistence.
Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” You’ll never feel 100% ready. I sure didn’t. The truth is, you’ll learn as you go. Most successful business owners do.
2. Pick a Business You Can Start Small
Start with what you know or can learn quickly. Ask yourself:
What problems do I see around me?
What skills or interests do I already have?
What services or products are in demand in my area?
Some beginner-friendly, low-barrier businesses:
Cleaning services
Lawn care
Personal training
Online e-commerce (reselling, dropshipping)
Consulting or tutoring
Mobile car detailing
Event planning or photography
Tip: You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Pick a proven model and add your unique edge.
3. Make It Legal: Business Registrations & Licenses
Here’s the step-by-step legal foundation you'll need to build a real business:
✔️ Choose a Business Name
Make sure it’s unique and easy to remember. Do a search on:
USPTO.gov for trademarks
Your state’s business entity search website
Domain name availability (e.g., GoDaddy)
✔️ Register Your Business Structure
The most common types:
Sole Proprietorship – Easiest, but no legal protection
LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Recommended for most new businesses
Corporation – Good for those seeking outside investment
Register with your Secretary of State’s office. For example, in California, it’s the California Secretary of State website.
✔️ Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
This is like a Social Security number for your business. It’s FREE and only takes a few minutes:👉 Apply at irs.gov/ein
✔️ Get a Business License
Check with your city or county government. Many require a basic business license even if you work from home.
✔️ Check for Industry-Specific Permits
Depending on your business, you might need:
Health permits (food services)
Contractor’s license (construction/trades)
Sales tax permit (retail/ecommerce)
Go to your state’s Department of Revenue or Licensing site to see what’s required.
✔️ Open a Business Bank Account
Keep your personal and business money separate. This helps with taxes, accounting, and legitimacy.
4. Start Selling Before You’re Ready
You don’t need a perfect logo or fancy website to start. You just need:
A simple offer
A clear way for people to pay you
A way to promote it (word of mouth, social media, flyers)
Real example: When I launched my first service, I printed 100 flyers at the local copy shop and passed them out door-to-door. That hustle turned into my first 3 paying clients.
5. Keep It Lean and Learn as You Grow
Your first goal isn’t to look successful — it’s to make money. Invest only in what helps you deliver value or get clients.
Track everything. Study your results. Talk to customers. Improve constantly.
If you’re not sure how to do something — Google it. Watch YouTube. Ask ChatGPT. The tools are out there. You just need the discipline to use them.
6. Don’t Try to Do It Alone
Surround yourself with mentors, peers, or even online communities. You don’t need to know everything, but you do need to be willing to ask for help.
Places to find support:
Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
SCORE (free business mentors)
Facebook Groups for entrepreneurs
Podcasts and books from real business owners
7. Your First 12 Months: What to Focus On
✅ Get your first 10 customers✅ Collect feedback and improve your offer✅ Keep your costs low and reinvest profits✅ Build trust and relationships✅ Learn basic bookkeeping and track every dollar
Success won’t come overnight. But if you focus on value, keep learning, and refuse to quit — you’ll be amazed at where you’ll be in 12 months.
Looking for help to start your own business or to get your new business kickstarted? Meet with us for free to discuss your next steps.