Step 1: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Find a place that's quiet, where you won't be disturbed. Close your eyes. Think back to a time when you were doing something that you really enjoyed. You were so involved in what you were doing - so focused - that you may have lost track of time.

You were totally in the moment... and satisfied.

The experience doesn't have to be anything very important or life changing. Small, seemingly insignificant moments count too. Focus on your feelings - feelings of enthusiasm and satisfaction.

Don't discount any experiences because you've already decided that you couldn't make a living doing that, or you're no good at this. Save those judgements till later.

The experiences you choose may seem to have absolutely nothing to do with business or making money. For now, just list any experiences that fit the criteria I've given you.

Step 2: Ah, Perfect!

Now, make a list of those experiences, and include a brief description of each. Look through rose-colored glasses as you do this. Leave out the parts you didn't like. Make these experiences as perfect and satisfying as you can.

You're creating an imaginary "perfect experience," not just listing a memory.

By the time you're finished with this exercise, you should have a list of about 10 experiences.

Step 3: Where Do You Find Satisfaction?

Now go through the list, and underline the elements that were particularly satifying to you. Look carefully through your list for patterns.

For instance, were you always working with others or were your best moments working alone? Were you working with your hands, doing something physical, or were you thinking, writing or dealing with people? Were you inside or outside? Were you being creative or being analytical? You get the idea.

Step 4: Listing and Sorting

Now make a list of the elements that give you the greatest satisfaction. Look at your list carefully, rating each element on a 1-10 scale, with 1 being totally miserable and 10 being extremely satisfying and enjoyable. If any element rates less than an 8 on your scale, modify it until it's at least an 8 - or get rid of it.

Now you've got a list of elements to look for when choosing your perfect business. And, more importantly, you know what kinds of businesses you can eliminate immediately.

This will save you a lot of time, and a lot of grief! And, if you find you need more clarification, just dig more deeply into your memory for more experiences and repeat the process.

Step 5: Evaluate Your Business Ideas

As you evaluate businesses and business ideas, looking for your perfect business, check them with your list of desirable elements. For each business, make a list of the activities you'll be doing most often. Rate each business on the 1-10 scale for its fit with what you're looking for.

A rating of 1 would mean a total misfit and 10 would be a perfect fit.

Any business that rates an 8 or better would be an option you should explore further. Of course, you'll also have to evaluate your ideas for profitability and workability. Take your time with this process. Get it right!

When you find your perfect niche - a business you'll truly love - it will make your heart sing!

Joan Linwood is a home based entrepreneur and publisher of The Happy Home Business ezine. Her mission is to help other home based entrepreneurs make their businesses more joyful and more profitable.
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