Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hello all!
I am trying to decide which business to jump on board with and go. One involves building/designing aviation books and products for kids (I`m a flight instructor on the side) and the other involves developing web applications for any number of target audiences (I have several ideas in this area).

The problem I have is: I am passionate about both. The books would involve getting involved in publishing / self-publishing which would be new to me, but I have a creative design background to use in this. I also love sharing aviation with kids.

On the other hand, I love to innovate and web applications fascinate me. I am also currently working as a web developer so I have the skills and knowledge of the web to make things happen. My brother is also a programmer and able to help in this area.

I`ve done the whole pros/cons list and both come out about equal in the end (for me, anyway). I want something that is sustainable long-term and that will give me some satisfaction that I have made a difference ... I am not just looking to make a buck, but to contribute as a person and as a business.

Thoughts on how to get myself off of "stop" and on the path to making this happen? :)

- Casey

flip a coin?

-------------------------

The Extra Money Blog
Make Extra Money Online - Paid Surveys
File an Airline Complaint - Sue the Airline
Dubai Information
Accounts Receivable Factoring
Structured Settlements
Raw Food for Dogs
Care of Bamboo Plants

I`ve considered flipping a coin, yes.

I guess I just need to choose one and make it happen!

Why not start with the books, since that gives you a well-defined niche, uses your passion, and immediately differentiates your products. You could try to publish, self-publish, or develop e-books.

When you`ve got those as a start, THEN build a Web site that focus on everything having to do with flying for kids. Heck, that might be a great tag line, "Flying For Kids!" or something like that.

The biggest problem for almost anyone starting a business is how to stand out from the crowd. Right now, zillions of people are designing Web sites for other people. Big yawn, who cares?

But how many people are helping to consolidate a youth flying culture?

-------------------------

The older we get, the more excuses we make for not chasing after our dreams. But truth is, goals are attainable at any age.

Thank you for all of the great replies. Yes - self-publishing and POD companies can be a dark alley... I`ve noticed. :) I`ll have to watch that carefully, and perhaps just do some e-books too to start out.

Thanks!
Casey

Splendid comments. The two ideas can be synergistic, though I also have a hunch you`ll do better to start with your aviation avidity. One strategy is to develop a web site focused on fledgling flyers. Once you develop traffic and trust by providing exciting and useful information and entertainment at your site, you`ll have an eager market for your products.

Blue skies!

David Fournet
Former Flight Instructor, ATP, corporate pilot

Decide which business if you were to start it wouldn`t feel like work.  The most successful business owners are those who are doing what they love.  Once you go through the process and decide which it is you will be successful. Do it for the love of it and everything else will fall into place.
Steve Little

Thanks for all of the advice. I am considering starting both side-by-side simply because neither are TOO intensive and I can outsource some of the software building/design.

I guess I am just a typical entrepreneurial mind... 10 ideas per day.