It's time to stop procrastinating, get your business plans into shape, and find your best fit in franchising! If you have been thinking about a business for a while, but you're just not sure about the best way to get started, you are not alone. The good news is that franchising is where people turn when they don't want to go into business by themselves. When you invest in a franchise, the franchisor will be your "coach" and there to cheer you on. Franchisors will also guide you to accomplish your goals while performing better year over year (over year.)

If you are thinking about your future and what you should do next, finding the best industry for you is a must. With so many franchise options you are sure to find the right one for you, for your investment level and the amount of effort you are ready to put into the business every day.

For instance, if you were interested in a sports and fitness brand, maybe you would like to stay child focused. There are dozens of options: from soccer to martial arts and from group exercise to classes perfect for new parents and toddlers. Maybe you want to work in the growing areas of yoga and Pilates with mindfulness at their core or help clients knock out negative energy with kickboxing and cross fit. No matter what your motivation is, you can choose franchise concepts that focus on personal, one-on-one training - those that bring the service to the client - or a brick-and-mortar gym that offers both small, boutique-style classes as well as group programs. Either way, you can serve your clients the way they want to get - and stay - in shape.

Within any industry, however, you will find investment levels that start in the $50,000 range, all the way up to a million dollars or more. As a Certified Franchise Consultant, I help you to choose a brand that fits you best. The right franchise will kickstart your business faster than if you did it on your own. Then, once you have proven that you and the brand are a good match, you can always open a second or third unit and turn a modest start into a bigger play as a multi-unit operator.

This year is the year to find your fit! Don't hesitate to focus on what feels right and make a change in your own lifestyle. Start a business that gives you the energy to grow, succeed and achieve your goals.

Originally written by Dawn Abbamondi (1/2020) and revised by Cindy Charette