Free Online Articles Directory

Why Submit Articles?
Top Authors
Top Articles
FAQ
AB Answers

Publish Article

Hello Guest
Login

Login via

Register
Hello
My Home
Sign Out

Email

Password


Remember me?
Lost Password?

Home Page > Internet > Internet Marketing > Making the Jump Into Self Employment, 10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Considering Entrepreneurship

Making the Jump Into Self Employment, 10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Considering Entrepreneurship

Edit Article |

Posted: Dec 07, 2010 |Comments: 0
|

So you have decided that you want to be an Entrepreneur, and better yet an entrepreneur who works from home. You have your extra bedroom, or den, properly converted into a home office. You have a credit account set up at the local big box office chain and visions of laptopping at your neighborhood coffee shop or sitting at your desk while wearing your fuzzy bunny slippers seem much more appealing than your current commute – follow orders – dodge office gossip – look busy – watch the clock – commute, routine. Assuming that you have already done your due diligence on your business of choice, here are ten tough questions to ask yourself before you get started;

1) Do you have a plan in place?

The majority of businesses that succeed and show rapid growth start out with a solid business plan. Many different business plan templates exist online and free counseling assistance may be available to help you with this through agencies such as the SBA or SCORE. A little research on the internet will yield a great deal of information on this subject. There are several types of business plans which can be used for acquiring financing, establishing and maintaining a company direction, or planning for hurdles before they appear. If you are thinking, “my business has no employees and it’s just me working from home,” I will tell you this: You still need a plan in place. It doesn’t have to be comprehensive enough to satisfy the SBA, buy it does need to address questions like “what are my monthly goals and how will I achieve them?”, and “what are my best case and worst case sales scenarios and am I set up to handle them?” The age old credo of Hope For The Best While Planning For The Worst applies here.

2) Do I work hard when I work for someone else?

This might be the hardest question of all to ask yourself. Be honest. When you are on someone else’s dime, do you work hard for them? Remember that this is not an interview question, you are only answering to yourself, and an honest answer may save you a lot of heartache in the future. Working for yourself is similar to working for a boss. If you do not enjoy hard work while under the scrutiny of an employer, then most likely you will not enjoy hard work when reporting to yourself. And worse yet, slacking or not giving 100% will result in a loss of your money. Self discipline is the number one asset that you will need as an entrepreneur, and if you don’t have it in the workplace, you probably will struggle when self – managing, which leads us to number three.

3) Can I self-manage?

As if working hard was not enough, as an entrepreneur working from home you are now not only the employee, but also the manager. Think about the best manager you’ve ever had. What did they do to motivate you? What is it that will light a fire under you and provide an incentive to get the job done? If you have never been in a role where you were required to self – manage your time, resources, finances and projects, you may be in for a shock. I’ve always said that to be an entrepreneur you need to train as a clown, a fireman and a dentist, because you are always juggling, fighting fires and many times, moving the business forward is like pulling teeth! Working from home takes discipline. After all, your home is where you have relaxed and spent family time up until now, so you will need to completely change your paradigm regarding what you do when at home. Set schedules and forge new routines. Keep your work related routines such as waking up early to your alarm, showering and getting dressed for the day, and even though you now work in the next room, go to work. Your new home office is now your job. When you are there, be at work. Take a scheduled lunch break and then head back to the office when you are done. Self – managing is all about setting and keeping good habits and can mean the difference between success and failure.

4) Am I organized?

Remember, you are now the boss. You no longer need to worry about the footsteps coming down the hall to your cubicle with the demands of timely results and better organization. What you need to worry about now is paying your bills on time, making a living and keeping your company afloat. A lack of organization can lead to lost productivity, inefficient processes, dissatisfied customers, elevated stress levels, and lost opportunities. If you are not an organized person, become one immediately. The best way to do this is to have a place for everything. Don’t let things pile up or linger. Get them done right away. If you look around you and feel overwhelmed by everything that you have to do, organization is your only way to dig out.

5) Am I a jack-of-all-trades, or a master of one?

Working for many years as a business consultant, I often found small business owners struggling to find ways to fill all of the roles in their company. I have worked with many doctors, attorneys, architects and engineers that are masters of their profession, but they can not run a profitable business. Running a successful office has nothing to do with drawing up building plans, or helping patients, or winning a trial. It has to do with running an office. Most of the professionals that I’ve mentioned above find great success by hiring a good office manager who knows how to multi-task. As a work from home entrepreneur, you probably will not have this luxury and you will need to be not only the bread-and-butter of your operation, but also the knife, fork and plate. I have witnessed many successful entrepreneurs answering phones, taking out trash, cleaning the toilets, balancing their books, making outside sales calls and stuffing envelopes. I have done these things myself, and I still do them. Be proud of the skills you have mastered, but be aware that the longer you can perform a task yourself without taking away from the growth of the business, the longer you can go without paying someone else to do it.

6) Am I willing to take big risks?

A good friend of mine who races motorcycles once told me that there are two kinds of people: those who take the big risks, and those who watch them standing on the winner’s podium. Being an entrepreneur is all about taking risks. Some risks you will be faced with are quitting your job, leaving the safety of a steady paycheck and benefits, investing money in a high-risk start up venture, taking on new tasks such as self – management, sales, or telemarketing, bringing a new product or service to market and even the simple act of making the decision you are now contemplating is a risk. Be ready to adjust your lifestyle, make personal sacrifices, cut back on your income, put in more money than you expected, and most importantly, be ready to change your plan on a dime. The market is ever changing and true risk takers are willing to change with it. Owning your own business is a lot like gambling. You win some and you lose some and the bigger you bet the more you stand to win… or lose. The difference is that this is not Vegas and the house does not always win. YOU can stack the deck in your favor with hard work and tenacity.

7) Can I adjust my lifestyle quickly if I have to?

You’ve heard the term, “the bigger they are the harder they fall”? If you are living on an executive level salary and your expenses match that salary, make some adjustments. Being an entrepreneur often times means that your income may not arrive to you fluidly. There may be times of feast and times of famine. Plan ahead for this by banking money during the good times and tightening the belt during the slow times. You may need to liquidate some assets in order to have cash on hand for emergencies, and you may not be able to grow your lifestyle like you have previously. Remember that the market can change without warning, and big numbers today don’t always mean big numbers tomorrow.

Am I a manager, or a do-er, and can I be a good mix of the two?

I recall vividly having been promoted up the ranks from a production employee to my first management job. My boss at the time, who was the Plant Manager told me, “you have to become a manager and stop being a do-er”. What he had noticed is that when my department became stressful, I would retreat to my area of comfort, which was my old role as a production employee. This endeared me to the production crew as a boss who was not afraid to get my hands dirty, but ultimately did my department a disservice. Later in my career I passed this bit of information on to managers that I was training, and got them to manage instead of always retreating to their comfort zone tasks. When I launched my very first home based business, I found that I needed to both manage and do, and regardless of my many years in management, time spent as a business consultant, a management trainer and a small business owner, I found myself sitting at my modest desk in my home office and retreating to the tasks that I felt most comfortable doing. When I finally found my balance of managing my time, managing the business and doing the tasks that need to get done, everything clicked into place and the business became successful. Finding this balance of manager and do-er is critical to home based success.

9) Can I sell?

Probably the second hardest question to ask yourself, and you may answer by saying that you have started a business that doesn’t involve selling. Well, I urge you to ask yourself again, “can I sell?” because it doesn’t matter what business you are in, you will need to sell. If you still insist that the business you are jumping into does not require you to have any sales skills, go back to the top of this article and begin your due diligence again. “Selling” doesn’t always mean putting on a shirt and tie and going from business to business handing out business cards and shaking hands. Selling can be speaking to your peers at a Rotary meeting, or chatting with someone in the grocery aisle about your business. It may mean upselling your client to a bigger or better package when they place their order with you. Sales skills will even help you when you get to the point where you need to hire employees because sales skills are people skills, and business owners with superior people skills run superior operations. This question can be humbling, but ask it of yourself constantly, and add to it: “What can I do to sell better?”

10) What is my motivation?

What is it that makes you want to own your own business? Is it money? Is it security? Do you just plain hate your job? Maybe you are tired of making someone else rich and you think that you can do it better. There are many reasons that people decide that entrepreneurship is their calling, but having been self employed for many years I have realized that there is really only one reason to make the jump. Think the question again in your head, “Why do I want to be self employed?” If the answer that popped into your head was, “Because I was made to be an entrepreneur”, and if it was immediately followed by, “no matter what it takes”, then you are ready.

Running a home based business is not for the faint of heart. Expect ups and downs and a lot of hard work. But it might just end up being the single most rewarding thing that you’ve ever done. Good luck on your jump into entrepreneurship!

Aaron Kirk is a Managing Partner of Toreador, LLC and the co-founder of GoMatador.com. He has over 15 years of experience as an entrepreneur, consultant, and small

Now Pay Close Attention –

Making money online with e-commerce is simpler than you’ve been told. Everyone faces the same two problems:

[Problem #1] How To Get Your Online Store Started

[Problem #2] How To Bring Traffic To Your Store To Produce Sales

ZamZuu has been solving these two problems for thousands of people! ZamZuu has been tried and tested and known to produce excellent results.

First: Visit ZamZuu Here
Learn How Your Can Start Your Own E-Commerce Store For Next To Nothing and Make THousands Monthly Using Our Proven Secrets!

Second: Sign Up For More Information From ZamZuu
We will show you exactly how you can start your e-commerce store and begin making profits online in as little as 7 days!

Retrieved from “http://www.articlesbase.com/internet-marketing-articles/making-the-jump-into-self-employment-10-questions-to-ask-yourself-when-considering-entrepreneurship-3806125.html”

(ArticlesBase SC #3806125)

Liked this article? Click here to publish it on your website or blog, it’s free and easy!

ramirel leflar -
About the Author:

With over 2 Billion dollars being spend on e-commerce this year alone, online sales are a massive opportunity to make a great living online. But to take advantage of this amazing opportunity, it is always a good idea to get a head start on your competition with the help of a company that has been doing it for years. Visit http://www.takeforeveroff.com and learn how you can make a great living in e-commerce.

Questions and Answers

Ask our experts your Internet Marketing related questions here…200 Characters left

How is self employment tax calculated ?
Is there a book that gives step by step instruction on how to file self employment taxes
Who is exempt from self employment tax ?

Rate this Article

1
2
3
4
5

vote(s)
0 vote(s)

Feedback
RSS
Print
Email
Re-Publish

Source:  http://www.articlesbase.com/internet-marketing-articles/making-the-jump-into-self-employment-10-questions-to-ask-yourself-when-considering-entrepreneurship-3806125.html

Article Tags:
entrepreneurship, considering, when, yourself, questions, employment, self, into, jump, making

Related Videos

Related Articles

Latest Internet Marketing Articles
More from ramirel leflar

Do It Yourself Allergy Tests

There are many companies selling allergy tests in stores an on the Internet. In this video Dr. Peter Saul describes the most common tests available and explains how they work, their reliability and possible pitfalls. (01:18)

Fiberglass Insulation Protection

Bob Schmidt shows you how to protect yourself when working with fiberglass insulation when insulating or doing removals during your home improvement projects. (03:02)

How to Create a Reference CD

If your working in multiple studio settings it might be a good idea to create a reference CD to familiarize yourself with the new studio environment and speakers. This tutorial explains the benefits of creating and using a reference CD. (02:47)

How to Install Aluminum Wall Panels

This DIYNetwork video shows you how to install aluminum wall panels yourself. (01:27)

How to Install Parquet and Build a Bar Stool

This DIYNetwork video shows you how to install parquet and build a bar stool yourself. (05:07)

Women her role in various walks of life Resume Writing Astrology

Articles are about women and her role as entrepreneur, photographer and also as the creator of men. Any field we think of we find women’s presence indispensable. She is immortal in the guise of a mortal.

By:
sangeetal

Writing>
Publishingl
Sep 01, 2010

KASHMIR CENTRIC FOOD SECURITY VISION

THIS IS A VISIONARY PAPER ON KASHMIR AGRICULTURAL FOOD SELF SUFFICIENCY

By:
Prof.ghulam Mohyuddin Wanil

Education>
International Studiesl
Jan 08, 2010

KASHMIR CENTRIC AGRICULTURAL PLANS AND VISIONS FOR FOOD SECURITY

SOme articles were send for publication under this website ,that are nit traced ,AS SUCH ALL OF THEM ARE PUT HERE TO HELP READERS ,tHE PAPER DESCRIBES WAYS AND MEANS TO INCREASE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN KASHMIR,INIDA

By:
Prof.ghulam Mohyuddin Wanil

Education>
Sciencel
Jan 08, 2010
lViews: 105

Should You Start a New Business In 2010?

Here are 10 thought provoking questions to see if you can muster the skills to start a business.

By:
Mike Daleyl

Business>
Entrepreneurshipl
Dec 01, 2009

Kickstart Your Internet Marketing Business With PLR Products

Depending on how long you have been in the information business, you may have come across the term PLR. You may have skipped over this and think nothing of it but what I am going to share with you in this article is going to help you rethink the importance of PLR products. See, most new infopreneurs struggle in their business because they found that creating content consistently is very time consuming, nothing is further from the truth.

By:
Kenneth Lucasl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Learn to Make Money Online

Today with the tremendous growth of the internet many people are looking to learn to make money online. Home based businesses have many advantages of a regular job or a traditional offline business but how do you learn to make money online?

By:
Shaun Broadheadl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Adsense $100k Blueprint

Do I Think Adsense $100k Blueprint scam? Do not purchase Adsense $100k Blueprint until you read my Adsense $100k Blueprint review to find out if it’s a scam or not

By:
reremomogil

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

A Review of Sean Donahoe’s Video Marketing Goldmine

Video Marketing Goldmine is a new course by Sean Donahoe and it shows you everything you need to know about creating successful videos for online promotion purposes. You are about to learn why this program is so special and why you’ll want to secure it for your business. You can read more here.

By:
Todd Allenl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

5 Tips to Make Money Flipping Websites

Website flipping is becoming a trend in internet marketing. Flipping means buy and sell. This is applicable in houses, cars, land, and other properties. Now, websites can be flipped already. If you are smart enough, you can get rich just flipping websites

By:
Gerardl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Make Money Flipping Websites: Starting a Website

Through online business, money making is easier and faster. You can become rich buy just building a website and selling it to interested buyers. Now, there’s a new trend in online marketing and that is flipping website. Flipping website is buying a website, improving it, and selling it at a much higher price.

By:
Gerardl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Make Money Flipping Websites: Top 3 Benefits

There are a lot of ways to earn money and one of those is flipping. Flipping is not actually new in business. A lot of houses are built and sold after they are developed. Cars can be brought at a lower price and can be sold at a higher cost. Even websites can make money through flipping. You buy one, redesign it, and then sell it.

By:
Gerardl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Learn How to Make Money Flipping Websites

Flipping websites might be a new type of online business but it is now becoming popular as a form of commerce. It’s easy to earn money through flipping websites as long as you know the proper procedure. Each step must be done with careful planning. You could not just involve yourself in a business without any preparation. You need to invest money, time and effort. That is how you will earn.

By:
Gerardl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Jan 17, 2011

Take a Stand Against Australian Censorship

Don’t allow the Australia Government to limit internet usage
The Australian government recently announced plans to introduce Internet filters that will block access to various websites throughout our country. Which websites? Those that our government has deemed illegal, however arbitrary that designation may be. Such action is a blatant and unacceptable attempt to control the content that we Australians are able to vie

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 24, 2010

Can Bing Really Compete With Google?

In the last few months, we’ve seen a lot of activity from Bing, with heavy marketing investment aimed at raising its profile. It’s perhaps worth examining the methods used to push Bing into the public’s consciousness and to carve itself a slice of the search market. Have their campaigns made much of an impression? How will Google react to Bing and what does the future hold in terms of competition between the two?
Bing Campaigns

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 20, 2010

Finally “Secret” 3 Top Business Opportunities to Make Money Online For You Revealed

Please pay close attention as you are about to discover “secret” 3 top business opportunities that make money online for real, fast and simply. Online world is very powerful thing and anyone who is whiling to put some “hard work” into it can become rich and financially free in very short time. The only thing you need to succeed is to get proven formula to work for you and forget about the rest.
Number one idea of today’s “secret” 3 top

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 20, 2010

Start a Personal Assistant Business and Make Money Now

If you want to start a personal assistant business, hold onto your hat! Why? Because you are going to love this easy home business. Here is what all the excitement is about – you work few hours doing pleasant work and for this – you get paid royally.
The following are some major points about this home business:
1) What Does a Personal Assistant Do?
A personal assistant works for a person or family and tends to finances,

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 20, 2010

How to Make an Attorney Video As Part of Your Legal Marketing Plan

The lifeblood of any law practice is generating new business and due to the economic climate that exists today, firms need every advantage to promote themselves to prospective clients. Traditional advertising through TV ads can be expensive and tend to look like used car commercials if not carefully designed. Attorney videos need to be presented professionally, carry a specific message and be delivered by an unbiased messenger.
In addi

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 17, 2010

Top 10 Tips on How To Write About Yourself

Many people find it really hard to write for business and marketing purposes about themselves and/or their product or service – much harder than it is to write about someone or something else. If that sounds familiar, read on; in this article a professional business writer shares her top tips on how to write about yourself and what you do, efficiently and effectively.
1. Before you do anything else, ask yourself not what you want to sa

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 15, 2010

Sales Website – How to Create One

A sales website is just the shop window to get visitors attracted, interested and buying. Behind that there are other pages following through the sale.
Your sales page needs at least a main headline, although there could be a highlighted tagline above it to catch the eye. The main headline needs to generate interest and curiosity.
Having caught their interest, you must lead them further into the sales letter with a bolded sente

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 15, 2010

Your Blog Content – 4 Insanely Critical Components of Effective Blog Posts

Frustrated with the results your blog content has yielded? Wondering how to go from being a good blogger to a great blogger and attract the attention you desire? What if I told you these 4 easy to implement components could change your blog?
Have I peaked your interest yet?
Let me get started because I’m honestly going to just pour it out for you. I’m going to share with you my insider blogging secrets that have allowed me to g

By:
ramirel leflarl

Internet>
Internet Marketingl
Dec 15, 2010

Add new Comment

Your Name: *

Your Email:

Comment Body: *

Verification code:*

* Required fields

Author Navigation

My Home
Publish Article
View/Edit Articles
View/Edit Q&A
Edit your Account
Manage Authors
Statistics Page
Personal RSS Builder

My Home
Edit your Account
Update Profile
View/Edit Q&A
Publish Article
Author Box

ramirel leflar has 47 articles online

Contact Author

Subscribe to RSS

Print article

Send to friend

Re-Publish article

Articles Categories
All Categories

Advertising
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Beauty
Business
Careers
Computers
Education
Finance
Food and Beverage
Health
Hobbies
Home and Family
Home Improvement
Internet
Law
Marketing
News and Society
Relationships
Self Improvement
Shopping
Spirituality
Sports and Fitness
Technology
Travel
Writing

Internet

Affiliate Programs
Audio
Blogging
Domain Names
ECommerce
Email
Forums
Internet Marketing
Link Popularity
Newsletters
RSS
SEM
SEO
SMO
Spam
Video
Web Design
Web Hosting

Need Help?
Contact Us
FAQ
Submit Articles
Editorial Guidelines
Blog

Site Links
Recent Articles
Top Authors
Top Articles
Find Articles
Site Map
Mobile Version

Webmasters
RSS Builder
RSS
Link to Us

Business Info
Advertising

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2011 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved.

0){for(var u=0;u0){var B=h.shift();w.parentNode.appendChild(B)}for(var z=0;z
]]>
]]>
]]> 0 && $.browser.msie ) {
var ie_version = parseInt($.browser.version);
if(ie_version

Read more on Post-Bulletin

emotional and physical break, and a combined rationalization to justify it, will continue to rise. Though the ride of life will continue, there are some things we can do to make it smoother from time to time.

For the past few years, I have had the assorted delight of exploits and objection of living in a

small resort town in Costa Rican, one of foreign tourism’s most sought destinations. In my

endeavors in the spa industry both here and in the US, I have found varying assumptions, real life

options, along with what works for that illusory thing we call rejuvenation.

Costa Rica, a country comparable to the size of West Virginia is, in and of itself is a Mecca

of natural wonders made for revivification. With my own inner desire to seek out some renewal for

myself, and being right here in “Mecca land” I decided to take it upon myself to find out what is out there not only for me, but for those around me who look to me for knowledge in this area.

Hundreds of auspicious companies now acknowledge the commitment needed to redirect the

unhealthy and unhappy workforce created by the demands of the job. Many are realizing that these

sedentary and high pressure positions may be causing employees a loss of physical health, leading to further preoccupations and overworked psyches. The return, high cost healthcare, and less productivity. Health oriented firms are taking advantage of this shift by craftily applying well planned, results oriented programs to increase worker productivity and reduce stress, while setting markers to measure goals and savings. Firms will work one on one with your company to implement on site healthcare facilities, work out centers, meditation rooms, weekly massage, nutrition and stress management classes, among other incentives. Giving back to the employee and acknowledging they are more than a 9 to 5. This provocation of our spiritual search and looking into our own behavioral patterns and how they lock us into our external lives is increasing. Our need to reclaim our behavior is a reason to seek places of divine retreat.

We seek rejuvenation centers for solace, to manage stress, detoxify, find alternative healthcare or for motivation for a lifestyle change, all while satisfying our craving for euphoria. What if we could bring about a radical change within ourselves, and let that ebb and flow in our daily lives. What is that worth to us?

From coastal plains to rugged mountains, and over 100 volcanic cones, several that are active, the humble country of Costa Rica depends on tourism to bring in foreign income that allows them to tackle environmental and social issues. The past year has brought that tourism, and foreign direct investment, over 480 million dollars of it. It has also brought advancement, with spas popping

up in rapid succession, and a seeming rush to beat out the next guy. According to the Coyle

Hospitality Group, a New York based market leader in quality assurance, the average person, 57% of

us in fact, have visited a resort or hotel spa 1-5 times in the past year. With spas at almost every edge of Costa Rica, from the south end of the Osa Peninsula, to the far north where you can visit a Four Seasons, I agree we will see our share of the 59% of consumers who now want more time to explore their spiritual side, according to the 2001 Leisure Travel Monitor.

R &R Resorts is the management operation of three well known and highly sought international wellness centers with spa and retreat villas. Providing the total “mind, body, spirit”

connection before it was trendy to include this slogan on every youngling spa brochure. One of their three facilities, aptly named Pura Vida, or Pure Life, a national anthem and frequent greeting for the Costa Rican People, symbolizing to take it easy and enjoy life. In other words most things can wait until tomorrow, not a mentality easily ingrained into our work harder, get more,

puritan roots.

I decided it was time to take advantage of my location and experience this for myself. As I passed through a small country town, they call Cerrysel, I am amazed at how much of this small country still remains for me to see. High green mountains, surrounded by coffee fields,

and winding small roads that lead to a remote hilltop location, needing a little navigation, almost as if you need an exclusive password for the privilege of the location. A seeming world away from my four hour drive from the coast, with fog misted mountains and a quiet calm, I looked forward to sharing with the staff. Having previously arranged a meeting with the general manager and marketing coordinator, I knew I only had the day to enjoy this getaway, because of my schedule.

Promising myself I would make a return visit for the much talked about week of transformation.

Upon my arrival I was greeted with a warm welcome by Manrique Gomez, the GM here for the past

three years with 20 years of management experience. I was immediately taken through the grounds, as we discussed the types of accommodations, classes, treatments and pricing they have to offer.

The walk was colder than I am used to, quiet, with only the wind moving the palm and almond trees

with a perpetual breeze, and a refreshing clear view of the valley and surrounding hills. With a

review of the 22,000 square meter grounds, of comfortable sturdy “toldos” or tents, and pagoda

style villas, 53 in all, I was invited to lunch. In the Garden Restaurant a cozy cafeteria style center, I sat down with some very sincere and enthusiastic staff. More rightly referred to as part of the community, at least that is how they like to view themselves. I was pleased to find some of my favorite combinations, tofu dishes, lots of fresh vegetables, cheeses, fruit juice and salad. A light healthy fare, that blends well with a weeks retreat of healing therapies from Bioenergetics, Watsu, Inner Guidance, Thai, Reflexology, Reflective time and all other customary treatments you may think of.

Everyone I spoke with was honest and open, not at all excessively protective of their

proprietary works as some who shrink from the interest of other trade professionals. Proud of their success and innovative programs they were happy to share. With members of the “community”

from Israel, Australia, USA, Germany, Britain, and of course Costa Rica, they have no shortage of

people who seek a chance to live and work here. Isvari, a Sanskrit word for the feminine of God, is the name the resident yoga instructor takes. Trained in Kripalu, Holistic Nutrition, Danskinetics, and Iyengar theories, she brings an open minded vision to her teaching. When I asked another member, what she enjoyed most here, the response was “touching hearts”, which is what she sees in the responsive and physical difference in her clients, at weeks end. Trained in Israel, Switzerland, and India, she has a friendly face, wide, clear eyes, and a true dedication to her work. Management, instructors, therapists, enthusiasts, solace seekers, and Pura Vida regulars all eat, live, practice, and

heal together.

Built on an old coffee farm, significantly more developed than when it was purchased 20

years ago by the founding couple of R & R Resorts, Pauline and Michael Klegg.

Now a prosperous company, it is comprehensibly managed by a couple of “corporate refugees”,

Rakesh and LuAnn. Based in Dahlonega, Georgia, near the Pura Vida USA wellness center, they

travel monthly to their sister properties in Tulum, Mexico, and Alejuela, Costa Rica. Rakesh, a former corporate financier, and LuAnn a lawyer by training, make for a well designed management

team. For two and a half years they have been behind the properties and programs you can find

available. In speaking with the management team I was able to relate to the dedication and skill it

takes to keep these wellness centers going. With my own recent work in boutique, and resort spa

start up on the Pacific Coast, I’d had my days of rewards and set-backs. The couple, having visited

the Costa Rican property three years ago on vacation, decided to modify their lives and upon their return, applied with R& R Resorts, later finding themselves heading up the project. Attracted to the wellness industry by a desire to do something more thrilling than the routine corporate world, and I’m guessing a little healthy self-interest to do something for themselves, they took it on with enthusiasm. With no misconceptions about the industry, they admit, it is just as hard, if not more, to manage these properties, as it was in high demand jobs. Travel is frequent and quality checks are consistent, along with ensuring that each property reflects and represents what they advertise, and is homogenous with the whole body connection put into place at the original MayaTulum property 20 years ago. The founding couple had some healthy discernment in bringing together yoga, and spa awareness when it was not mainstream, an became an inspiration to others.

LuAnn tells me there are no immediate plans for expansion on the Costa Rica property, but

that they are always looking to improve the look and “deepen their offerings” to the guests, and

leave them with something to take home. As we all know, our guests can be the greatest reward, and

the greatest challenge, all at the same time. The reason they always look for staff with the ability to deal with the public, and amongst it all, smile! A pre-requisite to be a staff member, I am told, is quality training, knowledge, and of course the right attitude. As I’ve heard throughout my career from therapist, to manager, through development and consulting, people can be trained, but if they are inherently unhappy, that will reflect in their work.

It must be working, as LuAnn informs me they consistently receive compliments from

clients around the world on the positive fulfillment of expectation and forceful energy of Pura Vida retreats. From experience I know how hard it can be to execute countless biddings, the feeling to out perform, and surpass your guests expectations. In this aspect LuAnn put it so objectively, “Some may have better rooms than us, others may have better treatments, but it is what we put into it, and the service and caring that our clients receive that make it an experience to remember.”

This is the attitude that has made this one of the most popular destination locations in Central

America, and the management awareness is key.

With the average vacation being 10-14 days out of 365, some of us, myself included prefer a new experience during our time away, where our personal needs will be addressed,

and you can really take some, YOU time. Sometimes that takes seclusion, and lifestyle change,

which is part of what Pura Vida does in taking pride in raising a level of consciousness for their clients, and creating a safe space for transformation to happen. Where as one staff member put it, “giving them time to return to the beautiful person they have forgotten they are”

LuAnn maintains a belief that nature has a way of healing us, if that is the case, then this is

a perfect tropical location to begin your renewal. Not only a popular spa with 9 mountain view

rooms dedicated to treatments and a private Watsu pool. Their wellness center can also be reserved

for yoga teacher trainings, therapist CEU’s, and seminars for all types and levels of the trade.

Destination spas are one of the things people think of when looking for a much needed

escape and to allow our overworked minds to be swept away, to contemplate a recent change, a

divorce, work, or life. Each of us will look to have a different expectation filled, seeking our own path, transcending age, health and circumstance. We all need, and deserve to function at our best physiologically and emotionally. Personally I look forward to taking them up on an invitation to return and participate in their wellness program and trying out the ‘Unwrap Journey Paradise” package , floating from massage to wrap to detox steam and facial. Exploring the boundries of my yoga stretches, and taking some time for introspection of my own to re-direct some goals that may have slipped off track.

Costa Rica can be a place where your daily rejuvenation rituals and healthy habits may be

challenged, you certainly will be hard pressed to find a turkey burger or raw foods juice bar,

especially disadvantageous to those of us living day to day lives here. Whether we are traveling or a long term guest in a foreign location, our well being is within our reach. Inside the borders of this little country I currently call home, I now have one more channel to access in my personal search for the sometimes misleading or unbridled spirit. Rejuvenation is deeply personal to each of

us, as we create our rituals to get through the day, deep breaths when needed, a private minute for a mantra, or scanning trade and travel magazines for the next get away. We find our way.

I look up as I am writing this, into a tranquil ocean cove, a friends’ sloop moored below, the

sun is setting, soon I will see the capricious pattern of shades on the horizon, a bird swoops

in to pick up a wandering gecko, and I move to the sounds of distant titi monkeys, and a subtle

background beat of a locally bought c.d., ‘Sounds of the Coffee Lands’. An echo of breaking surf

moves up the hill, like a chant, a sound that has always been my soul rejuvenation, that wraps me in

contentment. I guess this is the beginnings of my dream, my chance to re-invent myself and

capture the empowerment to appreciate it, and what enables me to provide a center of renewal

for myself and those around me. So my daily ride, once a roller coaster has slowed to a tranquil

merry go round, with an exceptional view… at least for the time being. After all I am working the controls.

Read more on Capistrano Valley News

                                           SUNIL KEWALRAMANI                  February 18, 2009

As investments, airlines are best left to relentless optimists and colourful egomaniacs. Over the long term, a diversified portfolio of airline stocks has reliably lagged behind broader market averages. Airlines’ long-run operating margins have averaged just 2 per cent since 1950, says UBS.

In 2007, during the Paris Air Show, the aviation industry was flying high….the world economy was booming and credit was plenty.  Customers who had booked from Boeing and Airbus could get a premium for waiving their bookings in favour of companies interested to jump on the aviation industry growth story.  Today, airlines are happier returning their aircraft than taking delivery.  In 2008, the Amex Airline Index has plunged more than 70 %.   Not only has the game changed, the dominant players have changed as well. At Farnborough this year,  Middle-East’s Etihad Airways has ordered 45 aircraft from Boeing and 55 from Airbus, worth about $ 20 Billion at list prices.  It reinforces Middle East’s position as one of the few regions where airlines have the financial clout to expand aggressively.

Singapore Airlines, which reported its third-quarter results on 10th February 2009,, is one of the less terrible operators. It has the two qualities every carrier needs to withstand troughs: a strong brand and a patient majority shareholder (state-owned Temasek, in SIA’s case). On top of that, it has one of the world’s better-looking balance sheets: cash in the bank exceeds long-term liabilities by more than three to one; a youngish fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft; and one of the most highly rated management teams around. As such, the world’s largest airline by market capitalisation is an industry benchmark. If SIA is struggling, pity the rest.

SIA is indeed suffering. The September to December period, traditionally its most profitable, saw net income almost halve. Operating metrics were solid: passenger load factors down only 3 per cent, while costs (excluding fuel) fell 5.5 per cent. But it came a cropper on hedging, locking in purchases of jet fuel at much higher rates than the period’s average of $99 a barrel. Losses should widen: 44 per cent of fourth-quarter fuel requirements – well above the industry average – have been pre-bought at $131 a barrel, compared with today’s spot price of $56.

As those hedges fall away, however, SIA has a real opportunity to stand out from the pack by protecting its dividend. China Eastern had recently rejected Singapore Airlines’ bid to expand its operations. What is more, cash flow after capex over the first nine months almost covers last year’s dividend. In an industry that oscillates between varying degrees of over-capacity, preserving the payout would really hammer home the difference between the leaders and the laggards.

For Vijay Mallya—the self-proclaimed “king of good times” who patterns himself after Richard Branson, the launch of Kingfisher Airlines three years back seems to have come as a cropper. Slower economic growth due to unexpected world crisis along with dramatic fuel price rise earlier this year has taken the tails out of the airline industry. There are urgent demands being made for reducing sales taxes from 26 per cent to 4 per cent which could help reduce air fares.  A sanguine Mallya has called for India to ease its restrictive FDI policies, which currently prohibit foreign airlines from holding stakes in domestic Indian carriers.

Although oil prices have retreated of late, threats by OPEC to cut production coupled by the threat of inflation which could return in the wake of extremely expansionary monetary policies of the world central banks, could cause fuel prices to go up again.  Fuel costs make up about 65 % of costs on long-haul flights but only about 30 per cent of costs for short-haul flights. Qantas, one of the world’s most profitable airlines has recently grounded aircraft, suspended routes, chopped capacity, cut jobs and struck a deal with its long-haul pilots to lock in the company’s 3 per cent per annum wages policy until 2013.  In the wake of 9/11 and SARS, the Australian carrier had performed better than its peers, picking up market share as well as aircraft abandoned by airlines who could not afford them.

According to a report by Frost & Sullivan, the price of Indian fuel is based on international parity pricing, despite the fact that international crude is refined in India.  Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) rates in India, represent 40-45 % of ticket costs as compared to the global standard of 35 %.  In the backdrop of high fuel prices, domestic passenger numbers has fallen significantly from a year ago according to the Indian aviation industry.  Jet Airways  recently laid off 10 % of its workforce, only to relent and take them back under duress.  GoAir has laid off a significant chunk of its expatriate pilots. SpiceJet has announced reductions in its daily flights from 117 to 100.  Kingfisher Airlines is negotiating sale of two of the five A340-500 aircraft it had committed to buy from Airbus in 2007.  Both Spicejet and GoAir are returning planes to lessors.  It is also contemplating deferring taking deliveries of 29 narrow-bodied A320s .  In response, some have adopted the use of winglets on the wing tips to reduce fuel consumption, others are flying their aircraft at higher altitude, choosing parking bays closer to the runway to reduce taxing time.  Some are cutting down the amount of water in toilets and for human consumption they carry while others are carrying lighter plastic cutlery, food trays etc. Even the Indian government has recently pitched in by withdrawing the customs duty of 5 % on jet fuel.  In addition, oil companies are reducing ATF prices by Rs 9429.87 per kilo litre with immediate effect.

American, Continental and Delta have reduced flights to various destinations. Pratt and Whitney estimates that its EcoPower engine-washing process saves Hawaiian $ 1 million in fuel annually across 31 Boeing 767 engines.  Eight senior pilots and the US Airline Pilots Association have filed complaints with the Federal Aviation Administration stating that US Airways is pressuring pilots to use less fuel than they feel is safe, in order to save money. By removing six seats, JetBlue reduced an A 320 weight by approx 904 lbs.  Air Canada is considering removing paint and primer from its 767s to save 360 lbs per plane.   Alaska Airlines indicated in 2004 that removing just 5 magazines per aircraft could save $ 10,000 annually in fuel.  It’s new beverage cart, at 20 lbs lighter, could save $ 500,000 in annual fuel costs.  Yet, fashion favouring turbo-prop aircraft, the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly in the skies, should help sustain order books for the same. ONEWORLD alliance of various airlines will jointly explore options for collective buying of fuel. 

Mergers and Acquisitions enable capturing abandoned  territories :

In 2003, Air France bought rival KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and has succeeded in luring passengers away from European rivals by offering long-distance connections through its Paris and Amsterdam hubs.  Lufthansa acquired Swiss International Air Lines Ltd in 2005. It aims to match last year’s record profit by capitalizing on rivals’ weakness and by harvesting routes abandoned by competitors.  This is analogous to Southwest’s model, where Southwest is capitalizing on players who have pulled off during the downturn in the aviation industry precipitated by high oil prices. Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines are planning to merge.  Continental and United Airlines are also planning a close alliance.

Elite class of rising carriers emerges on the scene :

According to an article in The Wall Street Journal, the strength of this club (which includes Southwest, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Ryanair and Deutsche Lufthansa) underscores the growing gulf between the haves and the have-nots. These powerful players are able to hedge costs, borrow money, buy new planes and pamper high-paying customers while their poorer rivals cut routes and seek cash infusions. On Singapore Airline’s five new Airbus A 380 super-jumbo jetliners, first-class passengers sleep on sheets made by French fashion house Givenchy, while coach passengers have USB ports for connecting their own electronic devices next to their seat-back video screens.  In the face of a severe industry downturn, Singapore Airlines’ operating profit rose 60 % in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.

Southwest Airlines  as a role model :  It’s discount-model has kept it profitable for 35 years.  It aggressively hedges fuel costs and thus has avoided current high fuel prices, to which most of the other carriers have succumbed.  It has hedged fuel at $ 51 a barrel.  The efficient hedges have enabled Southwest produce gains of $ 455 million in 2004, $ 892 million in 2005, $ 675 million in 2006 and $ 439 million for the first nine months of 2007.  It  has $ 3.7 Billion of cash in the bank and a market capitalization of $ 9.9 Billion, more than the combined market value of the six-largest conventional U.S. carriers. 

Next-Generation aircrafts :  Airbus has demonstrated its ability to fly its A380 aircraft with a synthetic liquid fuel processed from a gas called gas-to-liquid (GTL) in a three-hour flight between Filton, UK and Toulouse, France.  The new A380 has fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres a passenger for every 100 kms and carbon emissions of just 75g per passenger per km—17% less than that emitted by the Boeing 747.  Boeing 777 is the most fuel-efficient plane in its class.  The 747-8 will be 16 % more efficient than the 747-400 (and 11 % more efficient than the A380).  The A350 is the Airbus’s response to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Besides, EADS’s A400 M, once in service,will be capable of carrying a payload of up to 37 tonnes over ranges of up to 4700 nautical miles. Launched on July 8 2007—7/8/7 in US date format (date was chosen for impact), demand for the high-tech and futuristic 787 Dreamliner—a long-range 250 to 300-seat jet whose carbon-fibre body is set to make it 20 % more fuel-efficient than comparable models has been astounding. Dreamliner’s advanced aerodynamics (smooth wiring technology, spoilers that droop when flaps are deployed, and laminar flow nacelles lower drag) increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.  Higher bypass ratio allows engines to be quieter. Boeing has received orders from more than 60 customers for 892 aircraft, worth $ 145 Billion at list prices. Boeing’s energy use and carbon dioxide emissions at its major facilities are believed to have fallen 24 % between 2002 and 2007.  The Chinese white 90-seat ARJ21-700 jet is called “Xiang Feng” or “Flying Phoenix” and its appearance broadcast live on state television. 100 of the 180 bookings have come from Kunpeng Ailrines, a new venture between China’s Shenzhen Airlines and the US-based Mesa Air Group.  The arrival of the “Flying Phoenix” will truly mark the ascent of China as a leading world superpower and will energize growth in the Asian subcontinent.

Green Ross to SpiceJet’s rescue : indicative of sound contrarian call

Spicejet of India has chose as its suitor W L Ross & Co.  W L Ross has made his reputation on contrarian calls — buying into the steel industry in the US when no one would touch it, for example, and snapping up a Japanese bank when it was saddled with bank loans in 2000.

Low cost model here to stay

Air Deccan pioneered new ticketing channels at internet kiosks, petrol pumps and India post offices which helped bring down distribution costs by 12%-15% as compared to opting for a GDS (Global Distribution System) and for travel agents through the legacy system. If the motive is to cater to the large inclusive consumer base at the bottom of the consumer pyramid then the business model must create a scaleable product that delivers higher volumes at lower price points above very low costs with wafer thin margins.  The low cost model is about innovations, efficiency and enhanced asset utilization which are increasingly necessary in times of high fuel prices. The cost per available seat km of a low-cost carrier is significantly lower than that of full-service carrier.  The average revenue per seat for Ryanair, Europe’s biggest budget carrier, is Euro 39, as against Euro 247 for British Airways and Euro 57 for EasyJet, another low-cost carrier. It therefore implies that the airline with the lowest revenue per seat is at a comparative advantage and has significant cushion to tide over this rather cyclical industry.

The Indian aviation is still one of the country’s sunrise industries and both airlines and investors consider India as a compelling market. In my opinion, the oil bubble would have burst due to more durable demand destruction by the time the next Farnborough show is held in 2010.  The fundamentals viz. that India’s 1 billion people generate just 16 million domestic trips a year, is still very much intact.  This, coupled with the emergence of investors with deep pockets will ensure that the industry emerges stronger after the chastening shock. Equilibrium is expected to be found in the next two years as airlines are working to optimize capacity, rationalize routes and cut loss-making routes.

By simply raising fares, the distinction between low-cost and full-fare airlines will diminish, resulting in an undifferentiated business model. The government, on its own part, has to up its ante and improve its infrastructure. It is not uncommon to witness planes circling over destination zones in Mumbai and Delhi several times before being allowed to land, thus causing wastage of precious fuel.

The current scenario is almost reminiscent of the last downturn in the aftermath of 2001 terrorist attacks on the US.  That setback proved short-lived and so I believe will this one be.

Oil prices have retreated under the impact of unwinding of speculative positions by hedge funds and demand destruction is taking centre stage. The future belongs to the bold and daring, and not the timid and weak. The stage is set for survival of the fittest.  In the process, men will be separated from the boys.  The ongoing turbulence presents a tremendous opportunity for aviation industry players to emerge stronger than ever before.  The 2010 Farnborough air show promises to be dominated by a new set of industry players, ones that emerge victorious after trial by fire.

Note : Mr Sunil Kewalramani is a WHARTON BUSINESS SCHOOL MBA and CEO, Global Capital Advisors.  He may be reached at worldequity@sunilkewalramani.com. 

Bullet Points :

1)      The arrival of the Chinese “Flying Phoenix” will truly mark the ascent of China as a    leading world superpower and will energize growth in the Asian subcontinent.

2)          For Vijay Mallya—the self-proclaimed “king of good times”,  the launch of Kingfisher Airlines three years back seems to have come as a cropper.

3)          Launched on July 8 2007—7/8/7 in US date format (date was chosen for impact), demand for the high-tech and futuristic 787 Dreamliner—a long-range 250 to 300-seat jet whose carbon-fibre body is set to make it 20 % more fuel-efficient than comparable models has been astounding.

4)          The fundamentals viz. that India’s 1 billion people generate just 16 million domestic air trips a year, is still very much intact. 

5)          Rather than lean on the government for largesse, the aviation industry players need to pull up their socks, adopt global best practices, learn the art of effective hedging of fuel requirements, stimulate consumer demand and capitalize on battle-routes abandoned by their weaker rivals to strengthen their position in the world aviation industry. 

GPA: 5.07
Class Rank: 35 out of 560ish (probably around 29 after this semester)
ACT: 31 composite (32 combined english/writing)
SAT: took it sophomore year, currently waiting for May scores should be between 1900-2100
Misc.: 4 year letterer in Golf, multiple awards for leader of the team etc…

Off and on participation in catholic youth group

Have had a job at a golf course for a year…not going to lose it

Attended the National Youth Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.

Letter of rec. from a UT alumni (dont know who the others are going to be yet)

Participation in the First Tee which teaches young children (aimed at underpriveledged) to play golf

Member of NHS

More potential community service projects this summer and other activities…I’m not sure yet
oh yeah and i have 3 school records on the golf team as well as 3 Academic All-District for golf awards

Let’s talk bathrooms. Oh, I know, it’s a taboo subject, but I’m talking about bathroom renovation! As more and more homeowners are choosing to upgrade their existing homes rather than sell in this market, customizing bathrooms has become a popular option. And if you’re going to do a complete bathroom remodel, why not transform your bath into your own personal spa sanctuary? It’s not as difficult, or expensive, as you might think and the options for customization are nearly endless. Give up the clunky, outdated cabinetry, the boring, built in standard tub and hum drum look and opt for something unique.

So let’s talk bathrooms, let’s talk about the most personalized, luxurious, beautiful bathrooms possible. Even a basic bathroom reno, where you leave the existing footprint and floorplan, can benefit from the addition of custom quality items like vanities, faucets, lighting, and even Aquatic Whirlpools. Let’s start with the vanity. Forget those boxy, built in things that remind you of your first apartment. You’re a grown up now, shouldn’t your bathroom reflect it? Even tiny bathrooms and powder rooms have space for a cabinet style sink vanity, and if it’s your master bath that’s being transformed, you’ve probably got space for something more generous. From sleep and modern lacquer finishes to old world design, the only limit is your imagination and budget. Take plenty of measurements and then go shopping. If you haven’t looked at bathroom fixtures in a while, you’re going to be surprised. Want something that looks like a hand-carved antique? Not a problem. Modern sink vanities look like beautiful pieces of furniture, and that’s the way you should shop for your new vanity. Consider it furniture. Think about style, quality, finish, everything you would think of if you were buying a new dining room table.

Once you’ve selected your vanity cabinet, it’s on to the sink basin itself and the faucets and fixtures. It’s not just a question of drop in or under mount anymore. Now there are above counter options in china, glass and metal in just about every shape and color imaginable. All of which allows you to create exactly the look you want from sleek and modern to looking like an antique bowl perched upon a charmingly old cabinet – that it also has modern plumbing is the best part! Since we’re talking personalized and luxurious, this is the place to forget the bargain-basement big-box store sink and opt for a quality product like Porcher, Cantrio, Decolav, Le Bijou or one of the other quality manufacturers. Keep up the quality and opt for faucets that complements your new fabulous cabinet and basin. Faucets are available in any variety of finishes and styles to coordinate with your décor; they’re not just the old, functional but boring, chrome or brass of days past. Beautiful and stylish options from companies like Rohl, Cheviot, Whitehaus and Santec faucets are easy to come by and worth the splurge to make your bathroom the ultimate spa retreat.

But what’s a personal spa retreat without an Aquatic Whirlpool tub? Your spa bathroom should be as individual as you are, and what better way to relax and enjoy your new space than with a beautiful new tub. There are whirlpool and air tub systems that can even fit in the same footprint as a standard tub. So what’s the difference between a whirlpool tub and an air tub? The simplest explanation is: an air tub introduces gentle bubbles of air into the water and a whirlpool system creates forceful jets of water and air mixed together. Since an air tub does not require the same pump system as a whirlpool tub, they do take up less space. The only other major component in your luxury bath reno is the commode and, if you already have one or are adding one, a bidet. Add new floor tiles and paint, and you’ve got the basics of your fabulous personal spa retreat done.

Spend your time, and budget, on the big stuff, the vanity, sink basin, faucets and tub and flooring – those are the parts of your room that will be the same for years to come, and where splurging on quality will reap years of enjoyment in your purchase. After you’ve got the basics of the room built, it’s time to “dress” your spa retreat with all the little things; towel bars, shower curtain rods, linens, bath mats, candles, etc. Everything you need to make the room a relaxing, special, personal retreat fit for royalty. And why not? Your home is your castle, and you are the king or queen of your domain!

Read more on eyefortravel.com