It all started when I asked myself that one question: Is life happening to you or for you?

Today, I find myself asking it again when friends or clients come to me, puzzled with what their next career step should be.

In my late 20s, I was living a picture-perfect life, running my cosmetic dentistry business with a high-profile clientele of executives and CEOs. Yet on the inside, there was nothing but fear, frustration and emptiness. It was that question that set me on a quest across 45 countries researching and immersing myself in the field of human behavior, shaping my new career as an international speaker, coach and serial entrepreneur.

If you too are wondering what else might be out there for you, I’m already applauding you, as there is a certain bravado required to question the traditional norms and look at your life from a different lens. Hopefully, this article will be one of many supporting voices you’ll find along the way.

1. Start with ‘why.’

In the world where the media tells you about a 14-year old who founded a startup, becoming an entrepreneur is tempting like never before. Yet, before you go out there on your own, understand what is driving you to make this change. Find a reason to go that is so strong it outweighs all the reasons to stay.

Later on, when you jump off that corporate ship and are setting up your own sails, your “why” is going to act as your guiding light. During the storms, your little boat will rock, and you’ll be looking back to that comfortable ship you just left — those times are when you’ll need your “why” the most. Find your guiding light now.