Dear Ms EmployeR/D

Thanks for your letter regarding career advice.

I can understand how daunting a decision this is for you, not least considering that you've spent the last 10 years within the customer service sector!

However, I suspect that given the fact that you are questioning yourself and which path to take, you have reached a point in your life where some sort of change is needed.

Unfortunately, I'm not privy to your business idea, nor am I aware of your current financial circumstances. I am therefore going to assume that this is something that you have been thinking about for sometime now and so have set aside sufficient funds and have developed a business strategy to allow you to make the business a viable alternative.

Fear of the unknown is a common feeling but I honestly live by the rule of: 'Nothing ventured, nothing gained!'. My personal thoughts are that if you don't at least try make a go of your own business you will live to regret it for the rest of your life. Whether it turns out to be successful or not, at least you'll be able to hold your head up high and say I gave it my best shot!

Of course, if you are not quite there financially or have dependents, you may want to go with the 'dip your toe in the water first' approach. This is where you continue to work in the customer service sector, but on a part time basis, thereby ensuring a guaranteed monthly income. with your remaining time you could then concentrate on your own business. This will take off a lot of pressure and will mean you're not having to commit everything to the business straight away. Should it be successful, you can always part ways with customer service side of things.

I hope you found that useful!