This article is submitted by Marcia Niles, Editor of Entrepreneurial Women's Digest.

Every human being born into the world is unique! Each of us has been blessed with wonderful and unique gifts and talents. When we discover what they are and exercise ourselves in them, others are inspired and we are fulfilled in our life's work.

More than achieving monetary gain is the joy of seeing our dreams materialize and the difference we can make in someone's life. More than a tool to help you determine what endeavor to pursue, this worksheet will make you to pause and consider how you are spending your days, months, and years. Not every passion would necessarily lead to running an enterprise. You might simply be looking for an outlet to release and channel your creativity. Take a moment and complete the following worksheet:

1) What have you always enjoyed doing as a child that you would consider your special gift or talent? It's possible that you might have more than one.

2) When you experience boredom, what is the primary thing that you do, that is creative and brings you enormous joy? Some ideas: reading, writing, gardening, cooking, sewing, shopping, decorating and traveling. Make a list of your top 3 hobbies or pastimes.

3) Reflect over all your work experiences, and list some of your greatest achievements in the workplace. Also note what areas of your work are/were the most fulfilling. What did or do you look forward to most on a daily basis?

4) What are some of the things other people admire most about you? What do they say you are good at?

If you were given the opportunity today to start a business, what would it be?

Getting Ready

Before you embark on your entrepreneurial journey or channel your creativity, here is a list of things that will try to hinder you. Put them on your DO NOT PACK list.

Fear: What would you consider your biggest fear in starting a business or exercising your gifts and talents to the fullest? Though fear is a natural response to danger, it should not consume your entire life to the point it debilitates you from taking those critical steps of faith towards your goals.

Procrastination: Are you constantly listening to the opinions of others, (most negative?) Is the idea that you need lots of money to begin or a world stage blocking your vision? Are you constantly deferring until tomorrow what you can accomplish today?

Rejection: Are you afraid that no one will be interested in your product or service or that you don't have what it takes to succeed in your endeavor?

Negativity: Are you frequently bombarded with the negative attitudes and criticisms of others whenever you mention your plans or ideas? Check yes or no.

Yes No



If yes, then you need to deliberately tune out naysayers. Keep your hand to the plow, keep focus on your vision, and move ahead.

Fuel Your Passion

Even your greatest aspirations would need a support system. You must believe that the good gift or talent within you can help others, and that you are not just a spectator but a participant on the road of life and discovery. Maintain your level of excitement by constantly surrounding yourself with information that offers inspiration -- magazines, books, events, and other resources, including those people who spur you on. Above all, begin. You must get out of the parking zone. That will take faith! With each step, you will become more passionate, as you experience the joy of creating something of worth and value.

Staying Focused

As you contemplate what type of business to start, you might become overwhelmed by the hundreds of exciting opportunities around or unclear as to how to implement your great ideas. It's easy to lose focus and become involved in ventures that start out wonderfully, but eventually your interest wanes because your heart is not in it. This could go on for years, and your deepest aspirations might never get off the "back burner."

You must purposely channel your energy and time developing your ideal company or creating that special outlet that allows you to see the fruit of your labor of love. Do what you love and you'll always have that vibrant approach and stamina to stretch yourself. Do not allow anyone to set parameters for you. Know for yourself what you are capable of accomplishing; seek help when necessary, but don't be controlled by others forcing their agendas upon you.

If you happen to be already involved in a venture that is unprofitable or is not a true expression of your creativity, then you need to do a little "housecleaning" or put up a "For Sale Sign." Why spend the rest of your days regretting that you were not brave enough to take a leap of faith in the direction you were assured was yours to take.

Express yourself in creative ways that are fulfilling and beneficial. Have a plan and go forward.

Enjoy the journey in business and in life!

Marcia Niles, is the Editor and Publisher of Entrepreneurial Women's Digest, a website that celebrates passion and creativity among enterprising women. She also publishes A Walk in the Garden Devotionals, and Island Living Digest.

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