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Should I start a small business right away or wait?

Small Business

One of the value-added attributes of military personnel is our Can Do Attitude. This is such an important trait to apply to new missions and continue to cultivate. One of my previous Commanding Officers told me that we can either watch things happen, make things happen, or ask, "What happened?" The military gives us the skills and experience to focus on making things happen. It takes self-confidence, and that needs to be cultivated as we navigate new challenges. So, with our typical can-do attitude, many soon-to-be veterans and veterans want to start their own business. This is great because America is strengthened by entrepreneurs! If your heart is set on going out on your own, go for it. But if you want to and, at the same time, are not totally sure how to navigate the journey, then consider a transition path by becoming an employee for an interim period of time.

When I retired, I had a sense that I wanted to start my own company but I was not ready to jump into that pond immediately. Instead, I wanted to focus on my family and gain some corporate experience. I worked for an Aerospace consulting company and devoted myself to my mission as an employee, while simultaneously working on researching and starting my company in my spare time. My experience as an employee helped me network with other professionals, with whom I kept in touch during my self-employment transition process.

If you have high security clearances, and like the type of work for which they are required, don't give them up! Find a position that requires them, and then rely on them if and when you decide to go out on your own. Companies, and the government, spend a lot of money and time on clearances, and they don't want to lose qualified cleared people. Use your clearance as a calling card for specific positions.

Going the corporate route as an employee is a stepping-stone for gaining experience as a civilian, understanding the pros and cons of the corporate culture, and giving you time to research, plan, and prepare for becoming an entrepreneur.

In this regard, I suggest registering your company name and organizing your corporate documents (these are very simple if you want to start a limited liability company, for example). Do this as soon as possible, even while you are an employee, because it will reinforce your plan and intent to carry out the vision of being in business on your own.

Best to all.

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