Simple, Free, And No Excuses

by Randy Murray on November 10, 2010

Did you ever think to yourself, “If only I had the money I could start a terrific business?” Instead of business you could substitute art project, write a novel, or whatever else you can think of in there. But you don’t have the money, so that’s your excuse to not even try to make your dreams come true.

Wait no longer. If you’re reading this, you already have access to everything you need to get started.

You don’t need expensive software packages. You don’t need the approval of others. You only need to commit yourself to the project and do the work.

I’m publishing my own book and I’ve set up my own publishing company. My total outlay of cash is pretty minimal. If I sell 100 copies I should be in the black.

I started publishing this blog by spending $10 on a domain name (I later paid for a dedicated host, but even that was very inexpensive).

I’m working on a new project/venture with two other team members. We started off the project over food at a local restaurant. Then I had them over, cooked a meal and we nailed down the specifics. Now we have weekly conferences using Skype and collaborate in real-time using Google Docs. All three of us have years of corporate experience and have used some pretty high end equipment and technologies, but the simplicity and freedom that these free tools provide make it possible for the three of us to bootstrap this project with no cash at all.

My biggest business expense this year was to purchase a new desk chair (more ergonomic and comfortable — and the old one broke). I use the computer I already had and software that is either free or very cheap (I do use Microsoft Word for some client work, but I already owned that – I could probably get by just fine without it).

Yes, there are jobs that require expensive tools. If you need the tool, figure out how to get it. But if you’re building a digital business, most of what you need is probably available for free.

What’s holding you back?

 
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The Simple, Free, And No Excuses by Randy Murray, unless otherwise expressly stated, is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Northern Wolf November 10, 2010 at 9:48 am

My issue is actually finding a business partner. I get very demoralised going it solo and occasionally need the extra support or kick in the ass.

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Randy Murray November 10, 2010 at 10:06 am

I think finding someone to partner, motivate, or advise is very important. What you might need is a mentor - someone you trust and admire, but who doesn’t have to become a part of your business. Reach out and you might be able to find someone to become your personal goad and cheerleader.

The rest of us can provide the ass kicking.

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