Q&A: How Long Does It Take To Find A Good Start-Up Idea?

Q. I have been researching self-employment possibilities but still don’t know what I want to do. How long much time does it usually take to find the right idea?

A. It depends on the search strategy that you choose and your motivational level, skill set and personality. All these elements will play a role in the length of time involved. Some experts believe three months is a reasonable time frame for investigation, but some people may let indecision stretch the issue into years. If you are in the latter group, set a deadline for your decision-making, advises the Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation.