“Working 9 to 5, it’s a way to make a living”, Dolly Parton sang these words and are true – but is it the ONLY way to make a living. What would you do if you had passive income to support you – would you still be doing the job you are doing? Or would you be out with the family, travelling or buy that new house you dream of? Life is for living, so why not give it ago! What would you do if someone gave you 5 starting points to achieve this – would you consider aiming to live your life?

Here are 5 options for you to consider – helping you out of the rat race and making money to be a catalyst to your freedom

PROPERTY – Although the media tells us otherwise, now is actually a good time to buy property. Often the prices are cheaper and value will eventually rise (as it has after every other economic crisis). Make sure you do the research, talk to people who are also buying property now, and read up. A great book to read is “0 to 150 properties in 3.5 years” by Steve McKnight. These are many different ways to invest in property and this book covers a lot of them.

STOCKS – Now don’t shake your head at me and think I am completely mad. Before you jump to any conclusions read the article “Buy American, I am” by Warren Buffet. Here is a man who has survived stock crashes previously, and is one of the wealthiest men in the world, from stocks. My suggestion is do the research, if you are passionate about stocks – you will find a way to make money, especially at this time! Speak to others who are making money in stocks at this time – and learn from them.

DEVELOP YOUR OWN BUSINESS – You may be sitting on an idea that the world is craving right now! Put a comprehensive business plan together and ask people what they think. This may be hard, as it is your “baby” they are talking about – but see if there is a recurring theme in their comments, if there is, adjust it so it becomes a positive attribute. A fantastic book to read is “The E-Myth” by Michael Gerber – he writes in laymen’s terms on how to make a business work for you, not you work for the business. After all you are after freedom not working harder than you are now right?

FRANCHISES – A proven money making system – what better way to move forward. Research your franchise of choice, ensure it aligns with your beliefs and values, and most importantly will give you the freedom you are originally leaving the rat race for. Most franchises will need a certain outlay of your own money; however it might be easier to get a business loan for a franchise, than your own business.

BUSINESS BASED FROM HOME OFFICE – A home based business is ideal for the stay at home parent looking to watch their children grow up. With the internet so useful and phone deals quite cheap, you can be at home – yet connected to customers around the globe! Home based businesses are often cheap to start up and can have the potential to make a lot of money. It is important to do your research as there are thousands out there, and some are illegal. Find the one that interests you and most importantly, has the potential to deliver the freedom and income you are looking for.

So, which one? Read each of the titles again. Ask yourself – which one feels right, or sounds good to me? Pick that one to start with. You may find gold the first time, but don’t be discouraged if you don’t – I definitely didn’t and I tried practically all of them before I found my vehicle to freedom. Learn from the mistakes, and reward your successes – enjoy the journey and it won’t be long until your lifestyle of choice will be a reality.