How much of an amateur am I? I was about to set up on an eCommerce website and do business across state lines and international borders without first consulting a lawyer.
I was about to place massive buy orders for raw goods, products components, and design services, without first getting my books in order and having a professional accountant ensure things are as they need to be.
I was about to engage in the production and shipment of finished goods without first educating myself as to what the relevant regulatory and legal considerations are.
I was about to start hiring and paying people without first educating myself about the respective labor laws and relevant legalities.
I was about to engage in business practices that involve the transfer of money across state lines, and international borders, without first talking to a professional banker, and making sure I had the appropriate legal framework in place, and am in total compliance with all laws involved.
Technically I don’t even know if what I’m about to do is even legal, and yet I was so eager to begin.
I have yet to even consult an experienced professional about anything I’m trying to do. Perhaps if I was running a lemonade stand, or bake sale, it wouldn’t be such a big deal. But that’s not the case. We’re building something a bit more substantial. This is the time to slow down and do it right.
Sigh
Amateurs are adorable...
