Should I Quit My Job? 5 Tips for Becoming Your Own Boss

Within each of us is a desire to be our own boss. We’ve all had our million dollar idea, or one too many horrible bosses that make us want to start our own company. Yet the truth is this: Regardless of your idea, owning your own business takes hard work, determination, sacrifice, and a very clear understanding of not just your business, but also your personality.

Here are a few points to consider before deciding to become an entrepreneur:

Don’t quit your day job … yet. Whether you’re currently a student, work part-time, or are gainfully employed, the next great idea usually doesn’t need 40+ hours per week to get off the ground. Create a strict schedule for how much time you really need. You may not make a dollar from your new business for a while, so keep whatever job is currently paying you. And don’t ask your spouse or significant to quit, like I did, or you will end up living in your parents’ mobile home … like we did.

If you’re finally ready to start your own business, I encourage you to create a schedule, reduce your expectations, find things for free, and figure out who you really are … then, go take a shower.

This article originally appeared on the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), an invite-only nonprofit organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. The YEC leads #FixYoungAmerica, a solutions-based movement that aims to end youth unemployment and put young Americans back to work.