Seventy percent of young professionals dream of starting their own businesses. But the reality is that more than two-thirds of startups never deliver a positive return to investors. So, before resigning from your job to launch a product or service, there are several considerations to bear in mind.

• Make sure to test the viability of your idea. Begin by talking to people in your network to get their opinions on whether the problem you’re trying to solve is actually in need of solving. The problem doesn’t need to be incredibly widespread — it can even be niche — but it does need to impact a large enough customer-base to turn a profit.
• Build your network early. On this journey, your network may be your most valuable asset. It will provide you with potential clients, distributors, thought partners, and maybe even investors.
• Make sure your personal finances are in order. Starting a business is likely to be a significant investment, and the last thing you want to do is give up your livelihood without any kind of budget or savings plan.
• Remember that resourcefulness can outweigh investment. Brainstorm creative ways to get your business off the ground. It will depend on the needs of your unique product or service, but if done right, it could save you a lot of stress and money. For example, think about the products that might be waste to someone else but gold for you, then ask them to upcycle to help you get started.
• Prepare yourself emotionally. Go in with the mindset that some days will be hard, and even overwhelming. When that happens, it will help to have a plan around how to center yourself. Think about whatever activities best help you unwind and make sure you schedule time for them every week.