Your Plan B

So after almost a year of being laid off, my husband got called back to work last week. With him being an electrician in the union, we know that when he's working he makes good money, but when there's no work (or in his case, an excessive amount of workers), the layoff comes with some pretty fretful times, not just in his profession but in most. We don't know how long this job will last but we are certainly grateful to have it.

After having my daughter in 2009 I knew three things: 1. I didn't want to deal with my commute anymore, 2. I did not want to put her into daycare and 3. I wanted to have the option of working from home either in my profession as a graphic designer or something else. So when I left my job, we took the risk of living on just one income, and with my husband's line of work, the possibility that he could be out of work too. Which happened immediately! For the last 2 years he has been laid off at least three times.

We have struggled and are still trying to get back on our feet but I have to say we have God's help. Most people in our situation would panic instantly. But we were able to put food on our table and pay most of our bills on time (unfortunately using a 401K). And we both have work from home businesses that has brought in some income.

Working from home in any career field takes discipline, so it's not for everyone. And it has it's pros and cons. But if you're serious about finding your "plan b" check out this youtube video. It shows the reality of the instability of the workforce and the stock market but you have the opportunity to take matters into your own hands. Remember, just start with something you're passionate about.

Contact me if you have any questions or if you're looking for a way to supplement your income and I'll direct you to a couple of resources. Have a blessed day!

Franchise Friday!

Sorry folks! I couldn't think of a clever title. =D

Anyway, I went to Menlo Park Mall yesterday for their franchise fair. I just wanted to check out what types of businesses offer this option to making money and being your own boss. To name a few stores exhibiting were: Nestle, Haagen-Dazs, The Little Gym, and Cartridge World. Nestle was kind enough to have some chocolate chip cookies so I made a bee-line for their table!

Franchises require a lot of money: startup (the right to use their name); legal fees (to make sure everything is in order); build-out costs (furniture, equipment, fixtures for your location/s); inventory; supplies; and finally working capital (day to day cash available). For more detailed info you can visit about.com or Wikipedia.

If you're looking to see what are the best and up and coming franchises you can get your foot into, check out these articles:

Entrepreneur Magazine's 2011 Low Cost Franchises
Inc. Magazine's 10 Promising Franchises for 2011
Forbes Magazine's Top Franchises For the Money

The sites are endless but here are a few where you can find a complete list of franchises and more info on how to buy/start one visit:

http://www.franchise.com/
http://www.franchise.org/
http://www.franchisedirect.com/