Halloween is over, the holiday season has begun…how much longer are you going to wait to start your business? For many would-be entrepreneurs, waiting until the holidays are over seems logical. Schedules tend to fill up, some travelling may be required, free time is limited. The other thing that tends to happen over the next two months is that far more cash (or credit) is spent than intended. By the time January and the New Year’s Resolutions roll around, paying off the debt has risen to the top of the priority list, leaving the business startup languishing in a distant second place. Here’s a better idea – decide NOW that you want to launch your business idea after the new year, and take steps to make that happen…NOW!

First, you are going to need cash to develop your idea, so set a reasonable budget for the holidays. Plan ahead on the gifts and look for ways to find better deals on the stuff you have to buy. Check your favorite catalogs and online stores…many offer free shipping and other discounts already. And, if you order the items on your list, you are less likely to impulse shop than if you go to the mall. Also think about alternatives to expensive gifts. For example, homemade cookies and candy are usually a welcome gift (though you might want to avoid fruitcake), and even buying the best ingredients you can produce impressive gifts for as little as $5 per person.

Second, you are going to need time and space to work on your startup. Rather than spending the long weekends resting up for the next holiday party, make a list of all the things you need to do that might distract you from working on your business…and set a schedule to get them done before the new year. Clean out that extra bedroom to make some office space, clear out the garage to hold inventory. Think about all the little projects around the house you have been meaning to do and just get them done. If you don’t, those are the things that will keep you distracted from setting your business idea in motion.

Third, start talking to people about your idea. Let them know that you are getting things in order so you can start a business in the new year. Talk about your idea and listen to the feedback. Just this little bit of informal research will make your business idea more concrete and is likely to get you even more excited to join the ranks of entrepreneurship.

Don’t let another season pass without taking steps toward your goal of financial independence. Make a plan to prepare yourself for startup now and you will be ready to go come January 1st (or 2nd, if you plan to party like it’s 1999). Oh, and be sure to put the LaunchX System on your Christmas list…

Start Here. Go Far. LaunchX.com