You are wise to realize the importance of being financially independent. It can be quite difficult to change old habits, but not impossible. It can take 30 to 40 days to change old habits. I recommend writing out a daily plan of action – you know, write down what you want to change, how you plan to change it etc…and review it each day, several times a day. This can assist you in making those changes.

Yes having your own business can provide you the financial independence you are looking for, however, you need a stronger “why” (reasoning) aside from the money aspect. Other than financial “freedom”, what do you see having your own business doing for you? For example, are you wanting time freedom, more time with your family, travel, etc…

It is interesting to note that people who are “financially independent” or “financially secure” are more strict with their spending habits than the poor or middle class. I believe there is an important lesson to be learned in this. It is so easy to excuse our spending habits with things such as “oh, it’s such a bargain I just can’t pass it up”, or “oh, it’s only a few bucks, that won’t make or break me.” That line of thinking can easily send us in a dowward spiral. It’s those small little purchases that add up so quickly. Before you know it, you’re looking at your checkbook wondering where the heck all of your money has gone.

Personally, I began my journey into the self-employment/independent business owner world 7 years ago. I have to tell you, during the first 3 years the only thing that fueled me was my desire for financial gain/independence. When my now 5 year old daughter was diagnosed with a very mild case of cerebral palsy, however, those goals changed. She was diagnosed when she turned 2. That is when I learned the importance of maintaining more heart felt goals. Now each day I wake up to tackle the task at hand – I am fueled by my passion and desire to do the daily income producing activities necessary to support that dream.

There is another option besides opening a “brick and mortar” store, such as looking into a home based business. Should you feel the urge to look into that area, be sure to look for 3 key things in any company you review. 1. They must have a lucrative compensation plan. 2. They must have a consumable product that creates an emotional attachment to the customers. 3. The product must give quick, visible results.

You also will be wise to remind yourself that “success” doesn’t happen over night. The only way to get to the top is through trial and error, tough lessons learned, and through continuous personal development and business development (this can be done by hiring a coach or by picking up a book or two each month at your local book store).