How to identify your skills and interests

Why start with you?

Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it can be tough. The secret to staying motivated through the ups and downs is to build something you genuinely care about and are good at. By looking at your own skills and passions first, you're not just looking for any business idea; you're looking for your business idea.

This exercise will help you uncover the unique strengths and interests you already have. Think of it as creating a personal treasure map – the clues on it will lead you to a business that feels less like work and more like a natural fit.

How to map out your skills and interests

Ready to get started? Grab a notebook and pen, or open a blank document on your computer. We’re going to create a simple inventory of what makes you, you.

1. Create three columns: Label them Professional Skills, Hobbies & Talents, and Passions & Interests.
2. Fill in your Professional Skills: Think about your current and past jobs. What were you paid to do? What skills did you learn? Don't just think about job titles; think about the actual tasks you did.
   • Examples: Managing projects, writing reports, graphic design, customer service, carpentry, social media marketing, teaching, caring for others.
3. List your Hobbies & Talents: What do you do for fun? What do friends and family say you're great at? These are the skills you’ve developed in your own time.
   • Examples: Baking amazing cakes, being super organised, gardening, photography, fixing computers, playing a musical instrument, being a great public speaker.
4. Jot down your Passions & Interests: What topics could you talk about for hours? What problems in the world do you wish you could solve? What gets you really excited?
   • Examples: Sustainable living, animal welfare, vintage fashion, local community projects, fitness and wellbeing, classic cars, technology.

Top Tip: Don't filter yourself! Write down everything that comes to mind, no matter how small or silly it seems. Sometimes the most unexpected combination can spark the perfect idea. This is just for you, so there are no bad answers.

What to do with your list

Once your lists are complete, take a step back and look for connections. Where do your skills and passions overlap? This is where the magic happens.

• Do you have a professional skill in marketing and a passion for helping local charities? Perhaps you could offer freelance marketing services for non-profits.
• Is your hobby baking and you have a talent for beautiful decoration? Maybe a custom cake business for events is the right path.
• Are you passionate about sustainability and have a knack for finding great second-hand items? You could start an online vintage clothing store.

This list is your personal goldmine. It’s the foundation you'll use to build a business that is not only viable but also deeply rewarding. Keep it handy, as it will be your guide for the next steps in your business journey.