Bid'ness

So as many of you may know, I opened my own architecture practice in Chicago. I can tell you that "opening" and starting a business is hard work... I have been busting my hump this week getting stuff together. I have hired an accountant, Incorporated as an S-Corp in the State of Illinois, I have elected as a corporation with the IRS and received a Federal Employer Identification Number, started working on QuickBooks, and now I am working on opening a bank account so I can spend money putting things in the company's name. I still need to obtain business licenses at the state and the City of Chicago. These are all steps in the process. To be honest it has been very educational and actually kind of fun. I guess I am already realizing the rewards that are had for working for yourself. My freedom and control have been unable to be surpassed over this past week. I know I can succeed and I know I will enjoy this.

I have already starting working, actually. I had a few carry-over jobs that I have been finishing from St. Louis. It has been pretty easy to communicate thanks to the technical age.. the best part is the cash flow, which I need now since, you know, I quit my "day job". I also did some drawings for one of the guys with whom I share office space, so that should pay something - not immediately though. This industry takes so long to pay - that is the hardest part in terms of getting things going, but I can manage. Next step is finishing up the business start-up and then getting out there and doing some marketing.

I want to thank everyone who has given me congratulations and support as I make my way into this journey. Without that encouragement I would be a lot less confident and a lot more scared. I especially thank Kristen for allowing me to do this and not asking a single question or harping on me at all. I will update on things as they happen. Take care...