Unit of 1 - Starting a Consulting Business - Lessons from the Football Field

Terrell Owens of the Philadelphia Eagles, caused quite a stir as his quest for a better deal on the football field put him at odds with his coaches, his team mates, and the city of Philadelphia.

Employees often dream about quitting their job to set out on their own as a consultant, thinking that being the boss is an easier road. Here's what they need to know before they take the plunge:

- The fans are fickle. You're judged by how you played your last game, not your overall record. Pressure to deliver a star performance every time can be immense.

- Every season your record starts at 0-0. Get ready to start each January with $0 in income and it's up to you to make it go up from there.

- You're both the quarterback and the water boy. You not only get to do the work you love, but the grunt work too.

- Make sure you have a cheering section. Support from family and friends is a key ingredient to success.

- Find yourself a good coach (or three). There's always people to learn from. Surround yourself with mentors that can teach you how to improve.

- Winning is almost always a team effort. Even though you're working on your own, find ways to collaborate with others for success.

--- Andrea Michalek is a technology management consultant and runs Unit of 1 - a networking group for the self-employed.

If you're a seasoned business owner - do you have any tips for those just starting out? If so, add your comment to this article.