Choosing the right business idea can feel exciting — but also a bit overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which business is right for you?
The answer is simple: the best business for you is the one that connects your passions, strengths, and the needs of others. Whether you're a young entrepreneur just starting out or a parent helping your tamaiti explore ideas, here are 5 helpful tips to guide you in choosing a business that fits you.
1. Start With What You Enjoy
Ask yourself:
What do I love doing?
What hobbies or activities make me feel happy and focused?
What could I talk about or do for hours?
When you build a business around something you enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with it, stay motivated, and bring genuine energy to your work. Passion is fuel — use it!
💡 If you love baking, maybe it’s time to try cookie boxes or cupcake stalls. If you love drawing, you could create custom art, stickers, or greeting cards.
2. Think About Your Strengths
We all have things we’re naturally good at — even if we don’t always notice them. Think about:
What do people often compliment you on?
What tasks feel easy or fun for you?
What makes you feel confident?
A great business idea builds on your strengths, not just your interests.
💡 If you're a good listener, a pet-sitting or babysitting service might be a great fit. If you’re super organised, maybe planning parties or events could be your thing.
3. Look for a Problem You Can Solve
The best businesses help others in some way. Is there a problem you’ve noticed at school, in your community, or at home that you could help solve?
Ask:
What’s missing that I could create?
What do people struggle with?
What would make life easier for someone else?
💡 Maybe there's no one selling healthy snacks at school — could you create a snack box? Or maybe kids are losing their drink bottles — could you design personalised labels?
4. Test Your Ideas With Others
Sometimes a good idea sounds great in your head, but it helps to talk it through. Share your top 2–3 business ideas with friends, whānau, or a mentor and ask:
“Which of these do you think would work best?”
“Would you buy this?”
“What would make this better?”
Getting feedback early can help you improve your idea and feel more confident moving forward.
5. Make Sure It Feels Right for You
At the end of the day, the right business is one that feels right — exciting, meaningful, and doable for you. It should suit your age, your schedule, your values, and your goals.
Ask yourself:
Does this idea make me excited?
Can I see myself enjoying this, even if it’s hard work sometimes?
Does it feel like “me”?
If the answer is yes, you're on the right track.
Bonus Tip: Use a Tool Like The DREAM Workbook
If you’re still not sure where to start, the DREAM Workbook is a great step-by-step guide to help tamariki (and adults!) brainstorm ideas, discover their strengths, and build a business plan around what they love. It’s fun, easy to follow, and helps turn ideas into action.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right business for you doesn’t mean picking the most popular idea — it means picking the one that fits your passions, your skills, and your purpose.
When you build a business that’s aligned with who you are, it’s not only more successful — it’s also more fun.
Trust your gut. Back your ideas. And get started — your dream business is waiting.
