Things are improving, but it can still be challenging to find the right job and work environment when you live with Asperger's. That's why so many aspies have been exploring entrepreneurship (and many are finding success). Perhaps the most obvious example is the world's richest man, Elon Musk, who revealed in 2021 that he lives with the condition.
Starting a business is anything but a one-size-fits-all undertaking. There are as many ways to launch and run a company as business ideas. But that's not to say there are no general strategies that have proven to help countless first-time entrepreneurs succeed. Below, Autism Vision of Colorado lays out a few practical tips for using Asperger's to your advantage and laying a firm foundation for your new business!
Check Your Environment
Whether you are running a home business or renting a space somewhere else, it's essential to have a positive environment in your home. If you are a home-based entrepreneur, you will be spending a lot of time in your living environment, and negative energy can significantly hinder productivity and other aspects of your work. And if you will be operating your company at a different location, you need to have a healthy environment to come home after long workdays.
Consider putting out air-purifying plants and taking time to declutter and clean each room and space thoroughly. Also, find ways to allow more natural light to flow into your home. Leaving the window treatments drawn or even opening the windows can do wonders for your mental health and your home's atmosphere on warmer days.
Be sure that your home office is set up to prevent you from becoming stressed. Invest in ergonomic furniture to prevent injuries, and be sure that your workspace has plenty of light. You also should see to it that you keep your office organized so information doesn’t pile up.
Study Other Companies
Most content you read about starting a business will discuss the importance of writing a business plan. And while it is indeed critical to strategize, AllBusiness notes that some entrepreneurs with Asperger's find studying other companies to be a better use of their time.
You might be surprised by how much you can learn for your entrepreneurial journey by studying those who have done it before. Invest time in calling other businesses, visiting their websites, and speaking with representatives about their companies' operations. Evaluate how they treat customers, how they market themselves, the policies they administer, and anything else that can help you get the juices flowing.
Tackle Administrative Tasks Early
As important as your business idea is to your company, there will be plenty of administrative responsibilities to handle before getting into the fine details of running your business. For example, you will need to choose a legal structure that gives you an advantage and protects your interest.
Consider setting up an LLC to ensure protection from liability, tax benefits, and flexibility in how you get paid. There is also less paperwork to worry about compared to some other structures. To save time and stress, you can hire an online formation service for your LLC registration. Search online for a reputable formation service, which may be made even more affordable thanks to discounts that are offered.
Use Your Self-Teaching Talents
Most aspies are self-teachers by nature. If that describes you, use it to your advantage. Utilize your proficient researching skills and your ability to study for long periods.
Moreover, take advantage of your ability to figure out how things work. Much of starting and running a business can be self-learned, and there are plenty of resources to help you with the more challenging parts.
Think About Whether You Need Financing
Whether or not you need funding and the amount you need to obtain will depend on the type of company you are starting. For example, if you want to create a home-based web design company, you probably have many of the tools and the space necessary to build your business. If you're going to open a clothing store downtown, EY.com notes that you will need a certain amount of capital to secure your commercial space, gather your inventory, and hire employees.
Your Asperger's should not hold you back from starting a business; it can even help you in the long run. Consider the tips above about launching a company that will allow you to thrive day in and day out. And keep researching other ways to forge an entrepreneurial journey that leaves you fulfilled and successful.
Autism Vision of Colorado educates the community on autism and autism awareness and creates a safe place for individuals on the spectrum and their families to meet and support one another and advocate within the community. Contact us today to learn more! (719) 210-5895
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