Starting a business can be as simple as creating the D.R.E.A.M.

D - Define:

Start by clearly defining your business vision and goals. Without the vision, there’s no way to create the roadmap. Consider who you want to impact, what you want to achieve, the impact you aim to make, and the values you want your business to embody. Creating the core business foundation is essential! 

R - Research:

Conduct thorough research to understand your target market, industry trends, and potential competitors. No, not everyone is your target market! The clearer you can be on who your target market is, the easier it will be to create a marketing plan for your vision. This information will help you refine your vision and make informed decisions.

E - Envision:

Visualize the future state of your business based on your defined goals. Imagine the impact you want to have, the products or services you want to offer, and how your business will interact with customers and stakeholders. While you won’t create everything at once, knowing exactly what is coming next allows you to stay true to your vision and your D.R.E.A.M. 

A - Align:

Ensure that your vision aligns with your core values, strengths, and resources. Identify any gaps or adjustments that need to be made to bring your vision and current capabilities into alignment. If you are a solopreneur or startup company, determine exactly what your weaknesses are and have other individuals or companies get that done for you. 

M - Map:

The D + R + E + A then creates the strategic roadmap or plan that outlines the necessary steps to bring your vision to life. Break down your goals into smaller, actionable tasks, and establish milestones to track your progress along the way.

Starting a business is a daunting goal but when you create the D.R.E.A.M., it gives you a way to build a solid foundation, stay true to your vision and create a roadmap so you know and accomplish the next steps towards success.