“With time and patience the mulberry leaf becomes a silk gown.” -Chinese Proverb

I’ve recently decided that I am going to take my time with this whole starting-a-business thing.  My overall timeline is going to be simple.  The initial goal for my business is to be a part-time extra-income generator for me starting sometime before the end of this year. This blog, and the filing of my DBA paperwork, have already set the gears in motion for that. Then, in about 5 years, I’ll decide if I will make the leap to running this thing full-time. This is slightly contrary to the more aggressive timeline I originally had, and I’ve changed my “About” page to reflect this accordingly.

Five years is a long time. Why am I setting this goal so far ahead? (more…)

I’ve stumbled upon a lot of articles recently about computer techs using their powers for evil.  Here are some of my favorites: (more…)

A while back I was thinking it would be smart to consult with a lawyer to see what kind of things need to be done to set-up my business and trademark my business name.  I was pretty sure, at the least, that I’d need to file for trademark protection for my company name and file a DBA (Doing Business As) which will allow me to start a bank account under the name of my business.

So I called a local lawyer who specializes in helping small businesses.  You’d think that, being someone who is supporting the cause of the small business owner, she’d charge fees that small business start-ups can afford.  Boy was I wrong.  Here are some of her fees: (more…)

Starting my new Computer Support Business is truly a grass-roots effort.  I have no previous business experience.  I’ve only taken one class in community college relating to business.  I don’t have any immediate relatives who own a business.  Also, I’m going to attempt to make this business completely self-funded, meaning I’m going to avoid using my own money and instead use money I make from the business and put it back into the business.  I’m really starting from scratch here.

So in order to set some goals, ensure forward movement, and to help you all keep me in line, I’m listing the first steps I’ve taken, or will take, in these early days of business development.  (more…)

Before I really get the ball rolling on my business, I thought it important that I explore my decision to start a business in the first place.   What is driving me to start something that, traditionally, is a time consuming, resource draining, and brutally unforgiving journey into the unknown?

I’ve compiled a list, in no particular order, of the top 5 reasons why I’ve decided to take this plunge: (more…)