Hopefully you won't leave this step for last, but doing so won't diminish its importance.
Members of your family, at least those still at home or any family members who may need to make sacrifices or lifestyle changes in order to accommodate your business, need to know what you're up to and how it might affect them. If you have a spouse or significant other or children living with you, your home business will be a big part of their lives too.
Communication is key to helping them understand. Ask for their support – you'll find that's much more effective than demanding it. Try to understand where they're coming from. If they have questions, issues, or objections, discuss them openly. Caring and open discussions now help you avoid problems later.
Couples who plan to operate a business together need to have a pretty good idea in advance if that will work for them. It's a good idea to discuss who will be responsible for specific tasks. If you can't agree on this now, there's a very strong likelihood you won't agree on it later.
Don't let your business damage your family relationships. We all need an occasional getaway and we all need to keep our priorites straight.
A strained family situation is bound to show in your business activities - work hard to keep everyone happy!
What's Next
If you've decided to stay with your home business and give it a go, you'll want to read my 8 Steps to Creating a Business Identity: Hanging Our Your Shingle.
