Starting a business can feel overwhelming.
With so many decisions, tasks, and unknowns, it’s no wonder aspiring entrepreneurs often say they’ll start a business “in three to five years.” It’s a safe timeline – far enough away that there’s no immediate action required, but close enough to keep the dream alive.
But here’s the truth: the difference between staying stuck in dreaming and actually becoming a business owner comes down to one thing: Commitment.
After speaking with hundreds of entrepreneurs, I’ve noticed a clear pattern. Those who become successful business owners don’t wait for clarity or confidence to magically appear. Instead, they commit to specific actions that build momentum and move them closer to their goal.
If you’re serious about starting a business, here are five ways to commit to the process and make business ownership a reality.
1. Tell the World
Sometimes, saying your goal out loud can be the push you need to follow through.
Dorie Clark shares a great example in her book The Long Game. She tells the story of someone who struggled for years to lose weight – until they created a “pound-a-thon,” where friends and family pledged donations to charity for every pound lost. The public commitment made it harder to back out.
You can apply the same principle to business ownership. Tell your friends, family, or even post about it on social media. The more people who know, the more accountable you’ll feel. And when challenges arise – as they always do – you’ll have a built-in support system to help you push forward instead of retreating.
2. Create a No-Turning-Back Moment
Jodi Liscio, a former corporate executive, had always dreamed of starting her own business. When she learned her company was considering cost-cutting measures, she took a bold step: she positioned herself for a severance package and even helped recruit her replacement. That decision gave her both a financial runway and a deadline to make her business work.
Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to eliminate the option of going back. Whether that means leaving your job, setting a firm deadline, or committing to an action with real consequences, creating a point of no return can force you to take the leap.
3. Commit to a Daily Habit
Success in business isn’t about one big move – it’s about the small, consistent actions that add up over time.
One aspiring business owner I met decided to analyze a single profit and loss (P&L) statement every day for four months. By the end of 120 days, he had made five offers and closed on a business.
You don’t need to do everything at once. Just commit to a manageable habit that moves you forward – whether it’s reviewing business listings, attending networking events, or reading industry reports. The key is consistency.
4. Invest in Yourself
We tend to value what we invest in. That’s why putting real time and money into your business journey can make it harder to quit.
This doesn’t mean throwing money at random courses or memberships. Be strategic. Join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Hire a coach who can guide you through the process. Take a course that sharpens your business skills.
Investing in yourself speeds up your progress and deepens your emotional commitment to making business ownership work.
5. Build an Accountability Group
Sean Moore, one of our clients, joined forces with two friends who were also looking to buy businesses. They committed to meeting for happy hour every week to review their progress, share challenges, and hold each other accountable.
If you don’t already have an accountability group, why not get one together? Even just one accountability partner can make a huge difference. When you’re regularly checking in with others who share your goals, you’re far more likely to stay on track.
Looking for more ways to prepare for business ownership? Check out 4 Things You Can Do NOW to Create a Future as an Entrepreneur for steps you can take today.
It’s Time to Take Action
Starting a business doesn’t happen overnight. But the process begins with a commitment. Whether you decide to share your goal publicly, establish a habit, or invest in your growth, every small step builds momentum.
So, what will you commit to today?
If you’re ready to take action, Guidant’s team of business financing experts can help you get started.
Call us today at 425-289-3200 for a free, no-pressure business consultation to get started — or pre-qualify in minutes for business financing now!
Jeremy Ames is the Co-Founder and CEO of Guidant Financial, a company that has helped launch of over 30,000 small businesses since 2003. Jeremy’s experience as a business owner spans both franchises and start-ups. He has owned three franchise businesses across the real estate, personal services, and wellness sectors and also founded or co-founded five other businesses, including ventures in the media and business services industries. He is a staunch advocate for small business ownership, believing it to be the best route to personal and financial independence.
