Merriam-Webster dictionary defines talent as “a special ability that allows someone to do something well”
So many people dream of making a living while doing what they are passionate about, but sadly this doesn’t happen all the time. Most of us just do what we do for a living; we don’t live for what we do. I once saw a picture with the quote “Mondays are fine; you hate your job”. Loving what we do and being passionate about our work can change our whole perspective about life. The truth is most of us can’t afford the luxury of leaving our 9-5 jobs to go start a business we are passionate about, but most times, we keep wishing we were somewhere else, somewhere where we could be putting our talents, hobby and passion to work in our own business. Some of us don’t even think we have any talent, but the reality is everyone has a talent, and there’s never been a better time to turn that talent into turnover. So, if you really want to turn your talent into a business, here are 6 steps.
1.
Identify your Talent
It is important that you know the exact talent that you possess and you want to develop. It is also possible that you have multiple talents but you need to know which will be turned into a profession. Make a list of the things you love to do and those things that come to you naturally, and then weigh your strength and weakness in each. Be sure to choose one that will be meeting a demand or solving an existing problem. For a business to be successful there has to be a demand for the product or service it provides.
2.
Believe in your ability
Psychologist, William James said “Our belief at the beginning of a doubtful undertaking is one thing that insures the successful outcome of the venture.” Learning to believe is one of the basic factors for succeeding in a task. Not everyone will believe in your decision but believing in yourself and re-affirming your belief will keep you going and in no time, will soon spread to others.
3.
Polish your talent into a skill
Talent can only take you so far; skill will take you farther. Raw talent needs to be refined if it will be developed into a venture. Read books, attend seminars and take a skill class that has something to do with your talent. The fact that you have a talent alone doesn’t mean it can sustain you in the business world. You need to turn the talent into a skill and become very skillful in what you do.
4.
Understand your market
If you will be going into the market and hope to make it very far, you need to research and understand the market you are going into. Identify the needs and wants of this market and work towards fulfilling or meeting them. Your product or service should evoke strong emotions and tug on the heartstrings of your consumers. This will set you apart from the others already in the market.
5.
Be Prepared
Being an employee is different from being an entrepreneur. When your talent becomes a business, you will expect a turnover. And to achieve this, responsibilities will increase. The first few months/ years will require a lot of heart and hard work. Building your new business will take a lot of commitment and dedication to the venture, because you will be working solo most of the time especially at start-up.
6.
Be Consistent
Having a talent does not take the place of persistence. If you look around you, there are so many unsuccessful men with a talent or two. If you don’t stay consistent and persistent, your talent will soon mean very little. So, do not stop, do not relax, always exceed expectation and you are on your way to success!
About the Writer: Chris Bamidele is a passionate and unapologetic Nigerian, who believes in God and humanity. He is a writer, blogger, and an aspiring Television Director; and an optimist to the core. He blogs at www.chrisbamidele.wordpress.com and tweets @Chrisbamidele
