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President and CEO Michael Alden shares his advice on starting his own business. For many entrepreneurs fear holds them back from taking risks. Read Alden’s advise below if you are struggling to make the leap.

Excerpt from Smart Hustle Magazine:

“I’ve long dreamed of starting my own business. How do I make the leap?

This issue our expert mentor is Michael Alden, business guru and author of the best-selling bookAsk More, Get More. Michael overcame a traumatic childhood (born into poverty, his father, step-father and brother all were drug addicts, and his mother was infected by HIV). Coming close to turning into a criminal, Michael chose to clean up his act, become an attorney and eventually an entrepreneur. Today Michael runs Blue Vase Marketing, an Inc. 5000 infomercial consulting firm with more than 150 employees.

Community Q: I have long dreamed of starting my own business, but frankly I’m afraid. What if it doesn’t work? What if I fail? My bank account is not exactly bursting, and every time I get ready to take the leap, I think about what I’m risking, and decide it’s safer to keep my job. Can you help me make the leap?

Michael Alden: “The biggest risk is not taking one.” I saw that quote several years ago and I will never forget it. I never wanted to be that guy, who forty years from now wished I took the risk to change my future.”

Read the complete story on Smart Hustle Magazine’s website.