Lynn A. Robinson, Intuitive Consulting, Inc.

(Reprint from an article by Lynn A. Robinson in Balance Magazine — Spring 2004)

Starting your very own business can be one of the most exciting events of your life. And running it can be one of the most satisfying. But how do you decide what business is right for you, and just as important, how do you determine its direction. After all, as actress Katherine Hepburn humorously reports, "Life is to be lived. If you have to support yourself, you had bloody well better find some way that is going to be interesting." If you don't begin now, when will you do it?

My own business is based solely and solidly on intuition. I teach it, speak on it, use it to counsel people and corporations, and I write books about it. (And articles, too!) So you can probably guess what I'm going to suggest you use as you think about starting and/or growing a business. But first, let's talk in general terms about intuition and change.

Do you believe that at the moment you finally understand your life purpose, lights will flash, bells will ring and sirens will sound? Most people do. But the truth is much less dramatic. Your intuition will guide you to your true path through feelings of quiet joy, a nudge to try a new direction, a fleeting impression, or simply a desire for change. Those are the clues to listen for and pay attention to.

What's next? How do you take action on the intuitive impulses you experience? You may be able to figure out what you want but how can you get there? This is the part that may make you feel anxious because your soul is requiring you to move out of your comfort zone, to try something new. You need to take action. Many people find the right career choice in starting their own small business.

When you make a commitment to follow your intuition, you will be guided step-by-step to an abundant life and to the work you love. As you allow yourself to become clearer about what kind of work you want, how you desire to use your skills to be of service in the world, and how much abundance you can allow into your life, the Universe responds. It will put the right people, circumstances and ideas before you that will help you create the success you most desire. The Universe speaks to you through your intuition. It's your prosperity partner and will help you chart a course for the achievement of your heart's desire.

All that is required of you right now is that you make a commitment to begin the process of uncovering your life mission. Take it one step at a time. This is a process that will unfold in stages.

Do you want to be doing the same work next year?
Do you like your career, but often fantasize about working for yourself?
Do you long for the weekends when you can work on hobbies or other interests?
Is there some other career choice that has always fascinated you?
Has your work become predictable and boring?
While change may seem scary, do you find yourself thinking a lot about switching careers?
Is there something you feel passionate about that you'd like to try if only you could figure out a way to earn a living?
Do you long for a way to make a contribution to the world and don't feel you can do it in your present work?
Does your life feel out of balance? (Too much work and not enough time for family, social and personal time?)

If you answered "yes" to most of the questions, it's definitely time for a career change. If you're not clear about your next steps, your goal should be to become clear. Make an appointment with a career coach; take a class on the topic of career change, and/or begin to read some books on the topic of following your passion.

Following are some more questions to ask yourself that will help you begin to focus on getting in touch with your life purpose.

What life achievements or accomplishments have made you feel proud?
What abilities do you have that people praise?
What tasks or skills come easily to you? Make a list of things you do well.
What were you good at as a child?
If someone were to give you a eulogy, what contributions would they say you have made to the world?
What are you passionate about?
When do you do that makes you lose track of time?
If you had the money to take a year off, what would you do with your free time?
Is there something you want to devote your life to?
How can you help others by doing what you enjoy?
What do you want to teach others?

What matters most to you? Consider values like: autonomy, humanity, creativity, kindness, power, wealth, spirituality knowledge, leadership, community, beauty, or intellectual pursuits.
Think of someone you admire. What is it about their life that you appreciate? What values do you think they hold?

Make a list of twenty, fifty or one hundred things you love to do.
How would you spend your ideal day?
Do you enjoy doing things by yourself, with a partner or with a team?
What kind of setting do you like to be in? Are you an outdoor person or more comfortable behind a desk? Consider your surroundings when imagining your fun, ideal life.

As you look at your answers, are there any themes that emerged? Were there any "aha" moments that caught you by surprise? The answer to the question, "What's my life's purpose and how can I make a living at it?" may not come overnight. One of the qualities I believe we must develop on the spiritual path is that of patience. Napoleon Hill, the author of the classic book, Think and Grow Rich, makes a good case for this very attribute when he states, "Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success."

Okay, now we can get back to business. If you decide to start a small business, here are some things to consider about letting others know who you are and what you do:

What's your niche? What are you passionate about? Your enthusiasm is a key message from your intuition that will point you in the right direction. Do you love working with people in transition? Young adults just starting out in the world? Single dads or moms? The answer to these questions is part of your mission in life. Example: "I'm a coach who helps entrepreneurs manage their time, set their priorities, and stay focused so they can achieve their goals and grow their business."

Honor your communication style. You need a way to get your message out there. What works for others may not work for you. Do you love to write? Consider writing articles, a newsletter or a "tips list" on your subject. Are you a good speaker? Contact local business groups or associations that are connected to your niche. Join NSA or your local Toastmasters. Love to schmooze? Networking groups may be your best source of referrals.

Make the media your ally. Reporters need experts to help them explain the news. How could what you're passionate about fit into a news story? For example, a big employer in your town announces a massive lay-off and there's a story about it in the local paper. If you're a coach who helps people in transition, call the reporter and offer some tips on starting over after job loss for a follow up story.

Visualize, affirm and trust your gut. Spend a few moments each day visualizing the outcome you want. Put passion and feeling into the image. Those strong emotions are part of what attracts success. Watch your self-talk throughout the day and consciously choose positive thoughts. Finally, pay attention to your "inner compass" — gut feelings, hunches, instincts and the "still, quiet inner voice" that will point you in the right direction.

You are here with a life purpose. You may not know the specific details of the mission. However, your intuition provides the "inner map" that guides you and is always giving you the correct coordinates to move you towards the grand design. This is your work and you are a pioneer on the trail to the lifelong unfolding of the assignment. Wherever you are on the path, you will always have a profound connection with God through your intuition. You are never alone. Have courage and follow your heart.