The Web Design Business Kit Chapter 1 - Getting Started

Please note that this article has now been superseded by this excerpt from The Web Design Business Kit 2.0.

Why Freelance?

Just why are you starting out on your own? Why do you even work? All we really need is a couple of decent meals a day and some shelter, and we'll get along just fine.

Why, then, do many of us put in long hours trying to build a business?

Think about this question: your answer is important!

Is it to have a bigger house, a better car and more jewelry than the next person? If you answered “yes," then that's fine. Is it to save for the future so you can enjoy a nice lifestyle? That's fine too. Is it because you simply enjoy what you do, and putting in a good day's work nourishes your soul? That's great.

It's important that you identify the reasons why you want to go out on your own before you begin. If you know from the start why you're freelancing, you'll be in a better position to assess whether your efforts have been successful later on.

So, what is success?

Case 1.1. Success? Or Failure?

I have a friend who runs a small Internet business that sells a product. He spends an hour a day on his business. Sometimes he misses a day … or three! He basically works whenever he wants, which isn't often!

He lives in a modest two-bedroom unit about fifty metres from the beach. He plays golf three times a week, and has a long, leisurely lunch on Fridays. He takes himself off to sporting events whenever he wants, and he travels quite a lot. He always has enough money in his pocket to buy a beer.

Is he successful?

I have a client who owns a spectacular business that turns over many millions of dollars each year. He employs a staff of thirty-five and is setting up for international expansion.

He drives the latest Porsche, stars in his own TV commercials, and is well recognized for his wonderful business achievements. He works extraordinary hours and loves what he does.

Is he a success?

I manage a business that has a few divisions. We do quite a lot of Web development, market plenty of businesses, manage athletes, and own and manage a number of Websites.

I start work at about 8.30 each morning, and finish at midday. I then go to my local pool and swim a kilometer or 2, after which I go for a run or a bike ride. I might then spend an hour at my local beachside cafe thinking through a few business ideas we might have on the go.

Am I successful?

These are three very different businesses. And each business owner leads a very different lifestyle.

So, just what is success?