If you have always worked a 9-5 job all your life, then there’s a good chance it crossed your mind to set up your own business.

You may already have an idea in your head and you’re just worried that things might not turn out the way you want them to. This is the risk that comes with starting your own business.

There’s no guarantee that your business will take off, but this is what makes it so exciting as well. If you are planning to become an entrepreneur, then these are some important things to keep in mind before you spend all your savings for your first business venture.

1. Are you ready for the change in lifestyle?

Managing your own business can be a lot of fun, but it also requires a lot of time and effort, probably more so than what your day job needs. In addition, being employed means you can feel safe that you’re getting a fixed amount of money at the end of the month. A business, meanwhile, can have tons of sales one day and have zero on the next. This endeavor also entails a lot of learning, so make sure you are fully prepared before taking the leap.

2. Is there a real market for your products or services?

It’s easy to come up with a business idea, but thinking of a business idea that would sell is something different. Even if you were able to think of something nobody has done before, it can prove to be useless if there’s no real market for it. It is best to gather as much information as you can. Looking at market analysis data is a great start.

3. Do you have a lot of competitors?

This goes hand in hand with the previous tip. If the niche you’re trying to enter is already crowded, then you should think twice about pursuing your business venture. A simple search using your favorite search engine should help you gather information regarding your competition. It can be difficult to drop an idea you’ve had for a long time, but if there are already too many established brands on the market, then you’re probably better off moving on.

4. Have you set realistic goals?

Many individuals who think about setting up their own business are so eager and excited in the beginning that they tend to overestimate sales and underestimate costs. There’s the feeling that your new product would be loved by countless people, but you have to be realistic when setting goals. Creating a business plan helps immensely. You can also have it checked by an expert so you can make better preparations before launching your business.

5. Are you fit for the task?

If you’re just thinking about becoming an entrepreneur to escape your 9-5 daily routine, then you better re-evaluate your goals. In most cases, individuals who are competent but feel unsatisfied with their current job make better business owners compared to those who always feel stressed and under-appreciated. One option is to stay on your day job and only quit when your startup already generates a stable amount of income.

These are just some tips to keep in mind when starting your own business. Remember that this can be one of the most challenging ordeals you will face in your life. Thorough preparation is of utmost importance. Answer the questions above and find out whether you’re ready to become an entrepreneur.