Off-Piste (The Business Side)
So, you're toying with the idea of starting a business, eh? There are a few things I wish I had thought about before diving in. This is my third time start up, having also previously helped launch another and worked in a growing family business as head chef. But this time was different.
The first thing I didn’t really consider (until later) was this: Could I see myself doing this for years to come? Would I be happy putting in the work, day after day, year after year? For me, with ski servicing, the answer is absolutely yes. I could happily spend the rest of my life in the workshop, tuning skis and talking to customers. I’m passionate about it, and it gives me peace. That's the kind of business you need to build - one you’re still excited about, even when you’re running on fumes.
If you’re serious about starting a business, whether it’s a service or a product, ask yourself: Could I do this until my last breath? Because, let me tell you, it’s going to take a lot out of you. You’ve got to love it. You’ve got to be able to show that passion through your marketing, in your branding, and with every interaction you have. There will be sleepless nights, stressful moments, and times when you’re absolutely drained. If, at the end of those moments, you can still remember why you started and feel good about it, you’re on the right track.
If not? Maybe it’s time to rethink the idea.
Now, let’s say you’re keen on the business concept, but don’t feel that burning passion yourself - find someone who does! For example, if you spot a gap in the market, like a much-needed car garage in your area, but you’re not the mechanic, you’ll need to find someone who is. Without that passion driving the business, it’s bound to flounder, especially when things get tough.
Think about your favourite local pub. What happens when the heart and soul of that place - the person who makes it all work - leaves? It often falls apart. If you’re that key person in your business, you’ll need to document every process and make sure things can run smoothly without you. Otherwise, when you’re ready to step back or sell, the whole thing could unravel.
So, do you really think you have a great idea for a business? And, more importantly, do you have the passion to keep it going?
I left a 15-year career in catering, one I was highly successful in, but I had completely lost my passion. The only reason I stayed as long as I did was because I felt trapped. Trapped by the need to pay bills and the fear of change. It made me miserable, and I knew something had to give. Quitting was the best decision I ever made.
In previous ventures, I burned out or lost interest. You can’t be half in, half out. Until you’ve got everything documented and running smoothly, your business is like a newborn -sleepless nights, sacrifices, accidents, and a total disruption to your routine. You’ll likely experience hair loss and weight gain, too, much like parenthood! You’ve got to be all in, 100% committed.
If you’ve decided your passion can fuel your business for the long haul, you might be wondering: Why haven’t I started yet? It’s normal to feel nervous. Think back to your first red run, black run, or maybe even that first jump or drop off just off-piste in some unknown powder. Remember the nerves? I sure do - I’m not great with heights. But once you take that leap, push yourself over the lip, and land in a pile of powder with snow in every crevice, you look back and wonder, why was I so scared? Starting a business is just like that. You won’t have all the answers until you talk to others who’ve been there. Chat with fellow business owners, accountants, and subject matter experts - they’ll happily share their knowledge (normally free of charge too!). Ask questions, attend business meetups, and seek advice from people who’ve tackled the same challenges. You’ll realize that many of them were just as nervous as you are now, but they got through it.
Looking back, you’ll probably regret not starting sooner. So why wait? Start today - you’ll never know until you try!
Is your idea ready for the real world? Time to find out.
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