You're the boss: there are some things beyond your control, such as a poor job market. But that doesn't mean you can't control your future. Forget the 9-to-5 rat race and follow the lead of these entrepreneurs, who bought their own franchises

Entrepreneur,  Sept, 2003  by Devlin Smith

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According to Hockett, the first question on your checklist should be to determine whether franchising is the right fit for you. "Are you willing to follow a system? Because all franchise companies have very well-defined, well-developed systems," says Hockett.

If following a tried-and-true system works for you, next take a look at your finances. "Are you willing to invest your time and resources into a business and then work hard to make it profitable and successful?" Hockett says. "A franchise business is not a stock market investment--it's an active, not a passive investment. You have to work hard to make it pay off."

These questions just scratch the surface when considering franchising. You also need to consider any reservations your family may have about the investment of time and money you'll be required to make. In addition, think about what your goals are for the franchise. Do you want many locations with many employees, or would you be happy to run one location by yourself?

There does come a point, though, when you need to stop thinking and start doing. "If you don't make the leap, you never know if it's possible for you to have your own business," says Mr. Appliance franchisee Charlie Goff, in Cedar Creek, Texas. "I think someone looking into [franchising] may regret not at least being able to say 'Hey, I gave it a shot.'"

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