1. Before you even consider going it alone, are there other ways of moving on? Could you negotiate flexi-working or more responsibility in your current role? If so, these may solve your problems.

2. What are your goals? If they include control over your career and finances, daily decision making, and the chance to prove that you can do it on your own, then a business start up could be the answer.

3. Financial security, personal stability and professional prowess are the keys for success for business owners. If you don’t have all three, start saving money or getting trained, then work towards a sensible launch date a year or two down the line.

4. Had that 3am flash of inspiration? Fill a market niche, recycle your skills or turn a hobby into a career and get it on paper so that you have something to aim for.

5. Check whether you have the ability for business. Are you a quick thinker? Can you prioritise tasks? Are you good at making decisions? And what are you like with customers?

6. Surround yourself with ‘no’ men. Find an honest friend who’ll tell you if your idea is viable or whether your decisions are right. You want to know if you can make it before you put in the effort or the cash.

7. Is this the right business for you? Franchising, partnerships, buying a business or finding investors are all ways of going it alone but often with a fraction of the risk.

8. Do your homework! Can the market in your area stand another freelance PA or aromatherapist? Check out the competition, find out how successful they are and research your customer base.

9. Write a business plan. This simply explains how you will get from where you are now to where you want to be. Include aims, finances and marketing. Check out local initiatives for help and advice too.

10. Don’t just use the business plan to wangle money from your bank manager. Use it to motivate yourself and to clarify in your mind what you want to achieve.

11. Some businesses need injections of cash. If yours is one find out what grants are available from the government. You may be eligible to receive money for equipment or product development.

12. Many businesses are run from a back bedroom. Tough if you are used a busy office. Can you work in complete silence? Can you motivate yourself? Are you disciplined? Be honest!

13. The early years take up an enormous amount of time. Decide how you’ll separate your personal and professional life to find time for work and play.

14. Can you find the customers? Speak to family, friends, neighbours and colleagues about whether they’d use your business. Be careful about poaching clients from your current job though. A bad reputation won’t take your business far.

15. Mentors are a great way of getting guidance and support. Is there someone who knows all about business or a friend in the same industry? Talk to them about everything from buying the right PC to finding new premises.

16. Networking is key! Join organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce to meet possible clients. Treat customers like gold dust, and if you have staff remember that they are the lifeblood of your business.

17. Now for the fun bit. Shopping! Make a list of everything you need, from extra phone lines to first aid boxes and methodically buy each one. Look at the business your work for at the moment. What are their essentials?

18. Worried about whether you can do it? Then find out if you could work part time in your current role, building up your business until you have the confidence to leave. It makes the leap less daunting later on.

19. The first year in business is a steep learning curve. Praise yourself when you do well, learn from the glitches and never stop improving the way you work.

20. The first year is just the first step! Where do you want to be in five years time? Write down your three priorities and work towards them. Then enjoy being your very own businesswoman.