Knowledge Marketplace
My First Million

My First Million

The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.

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Successfully transition from employee to entrepreneur/independent operator

Experienced professionals looking to start their own ventures

6-18 months

What Success Looks Like

Financial independence through your own skills and relationships rather than employer dependence

Steps to Execute

1

Identify your unique value proposition and relationships

2

Offer to work for free initially to prove value

3

Structure deals for percentage of results rather than salary

4

Force yourself into uncomfortable position by making the leap

5

Focus on one area where you can become indispensable

6

Reinvest early earnings into building your own platform

Checklist

Have enough savings for 6-12 months of expenses
Identified specific skill that clients will pay for
Strong relationships in target industry
Willingness to work initially for equity/commission only
Clear value proposition you can communicate simply

Inputs Needed

  • Proven track record in specific skill area
  • Industry relationships and credibility
  • Financial cushion for transition period
  • High risk tolerance for income variability

Outputs

  • Higher earning potential than salary
  • Freedom to pursue interesting opportunities
  • Ownership of your professional destiny

Example

“Finance professional offers to work for free for 3 months doing business development for asset manager, proves value by raising capital, then negotiates ongoing percentage of assets raised.”