cover image Dare to Be Your Own Boss: Follow Your Passion, Create a Niche

Dare to Be Your Own Boss: Follow Your Passion, Create a Niche

Maya Sullivan. Synergy (synergy-books.com), $22.99 trade paper (344p) ISBN 978-0-9907-5420-6

Many people dream about starting their own businesses and working for themselves, but few are confident enough to forgo a steady paycheck and leap into the unknown. Sullivan, a self-admitted serial career reinventor, seeks to increase the odds of success in this in-depth informative guide. The key, she states, is to discover what excites your passion and then match it with a venture. The book consists of three sections, namely “Becoming Your Own Boss,” “12 Areas of Opportunity,” and “Moving Forward.” Sullivan begins with the basics, identifying six benefits and six drawbacks of being the boss, with expanded income potential and enhanced well-being on the upside, and financial uncertainty and no subsidized benefits on the downside. She also explores options for financing that range from traditional investors to crowdfunding. Sullivan goes on to list “14 Keys to Ignite Your Passion and Enthusiasm.” Part Two focuses on categories of industries to explore, such as business-to-business, and goods and services. The last section is perhaps the most crucial, exploring the all-important concept of viability, followed by a lengthy list of resources for new business owners. While Sullivan doesn’t claim to have a roadmap to success, she does arm readers with knowledge that will be handy in getting there. (BookLife)