So, my brother Glynn, niece Ripples, and I are working on this new company together and it's a blast.  It's the first time that Ripples and I have "started" a company, and we're learning about all the trials and errors. We're lucky, because we have the best teacher-my brother who also happens to be Ripples' dad.  He's the entrepreneur with all the tools and tricks. Today, one of the things I learned was to better label my photos in my photo dropbox.  "Milkshake I" and "Milkshake II" labels don't help me much.  Neither do dates.  So, now to come up with a formula....hmmmm....that's the other part of starting up a company.  How much time do you spend on each task? And if you are someone like me, your brain gets easily distracted. 

What was I saying? Oh, yes...starting a company.  So, first thing is first. You must figure out what your company is selling of course.  Now, you can do one of two things.  You can take something that is already out there and make it better, or invent something on your own.  Obviously, the second choice would ROCK, but if that doesn't come naturally to you, figure out how to improve something that is already invented. 

Second, you have to be passionate about what you are about to sell.  At least that's what it is for me.  Because you are going to be spending a lot of time and energy thinking about this baby.  Everything you do will revolve around your product or idea.  It's awesome, so you better like it.  Besides, people can tell if you are passionate about something or not.  And you should just be honest with yourself.

Third, find a good team to work with.  Whether it's just yourself, a partner, or a whole troop of monkeys-find individuals that you love to be around.  You don't have to, but it makes things easier. 

Fourth, start to be seen and heard. Everywhere! Go global if you can.  Just get out there and let people know what you are up to and that you want them to be a part of the grand picture.  We're all in this together.

Fifth, stay focused.  Stay connected.  Keep at it. If you don't understand something, learn about it.  Become an expert or at least be able to help someone else figure it out once you have figured it out.  They say that when you hear something, you remember 10% of what you read, 20% of what you hear, and 90% of what you do and say. 

Finally, have fun!