Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?

What is your strategy for deciding if you have what it takes to become an entrepreneur?

Your Rant: I’m tired of all of the corporate b.s. so I’m thinking about going out on my own. But a friend says I’d never make it in business for myself because I don’t have the temperament. How can I tell?

911 Repair,

Your letter brings to mind a song that was popular in the 60’s, “Both Sides Now.” Feel free to sing along with my updated version:

Memos & pulling out your hair, decisions left up in the air,

And little tyrants everywhere, I’ve looked at work that way.

But now it only blocks my fun, it makes me mad at everyone,

So many things I could have done, but the company got in my way!

I hear from a lot of people who are tired of the corporate b.s. (it’s the number one topic of the letters I receive). And you’re not the first to wonder if life wouldn’t be better on the outside. For many it is-thousands of intrepid souls have successfully made the transition from tenth floor cubicle to kitchen table. But your friend is right: it ain’t for everyone, and lots more end up selling out the dream than selling stock in their companies.

So let’s get right to a series of questions to help you decide if your skills are transferable (also check out Irving Burstiner’s book, The Small Business Handbook, Fireside Books, 1989).

You’re used to playing one role in a big organization. Can you adjust to playing multiple roles in a small shop? In the corporate world there’s a specialist for every detail. In your own shop you’re the chief cook and bottle washer. Do you have the skills and the patience?

You’re used to minimizing risk. Can you learn to love it? Corporations treat risk the way Japanese chefs treat blowfish: a tiny bit, carefully prepared, and only on special occasions. In start-ups, risk is the main course. Do have the stomach?

You’re used to a steady paycheck. Can you live with less frequent deposits? Most entrepreneurs start out with Mercedes dreams but keep the Chevy a lot longer than they thought. Are you ready to chuck the expense account for a more humble lifestyle?

You’re used to having colleagues. Can you learn to love life on your own? Your coworkers may drive you crazy, but at least they’re there. The support and insight of colleagues is the thing that most entrepreneurs miss the most.

If you’ve passed this “test”-and if you’ve got a damn good business idea-go for it! Kiss your boss goodbye. ‘Cause as Joni Mitchell almost said:

Tears and fears and feeling proud, I said,”I’m outta here!” right out loud.

Dreams and schemes and IPO’s, now I look at work that way.

My old friends are acting strange, they shake their heads, they say I’ve changed,

Sure, something’s lost, but something’s gained: I’m working my own way!

Bob Rosner and Sherrie Campbell author the nationally syndicated workplace911 column weekly. Bob’s a best-selling author and award-winning journalist who has responded to over 50,000 emails from employees, bosses and entrepreneurs. Sherrie’s a relationship expert and award-winning comedian who has offered quick, intuitive and humorous responses to over 30,000 people. He’s been called “Dilbert, with a solution.” She’s the counselor with a kick. Together they’ve turned rants into raves via TV, radio, print and live on their website at workplace911.com.