By Hayley Weatherburn

"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?

5 options to mull over and weigh up which will be your vehicle out of the rat race:

PROPERTY - Yes, I can hear you say - property NOW? In this economy! To be honest, yes property is a great one. Do the research, look in the papers, talk to real estate agents, and your bank. There are many ways of making money in property - a fantastic book to read is "0 to 150 properties in 3.5 years" by Steve McKnight. It shows you many different ways in an easy to read format! Follow this and you will be on your way!

STOCKS - Ouch - you mean now, when it seems so volatile. All i can say to this is read the article "Buy American, I am" in New York Times, by Warren Buffet. One of THE most successful investors in the stock market and he is investing - he must know something. Again research, speak to other brokers and investors and find what is best for you! Right now could be your chance to shine in this area.

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY - Everything you see around you - the objects, the businesses and the relationships - began as a thought in someone's mind. What gem is in your head that could bring you freedom and wealth? The best thing to do is start writing down your ideas, when something sticks -research it's possibilities, the competition and so on. Ask people for their thoughts and ideas, it will evolve as you evolve. A brilliant book that will make sure you create a business that works for you, rather than you work in the business - "The E-Myth" by Michael Gerber.

FRANCHISES - These are proven systems that make you money. The biggest thing here is you will need to outlay a reasonable amount of money. However as these are proven, it may be easier to get a business loan for a franchise than for an unproven business of your own. Again, find a franchise that aligns with an interest of yours, which has similar values to you and yep, you guessed it, research! If you are looking for less of a risk than building your own business, then this will definitely be something to consider.

HOME BASED BUSINESS - now a day with the internet easily available anywhere and phone coverage is wide and cheap - a business can run from almost anywhere. These businesses are ideal for those stay at home parents. Also for those people who want to be able to travel with an income, or even just those that want to live their own lifestyle and fit the business around that. There are A LOT of home based businesses around these days, it is a good idea to find out all you can about the business, research them more on the internet, check they are legal and then once it fills your criteria of creating a lifestyle you want - then go for it!

So where to start from here? I would look within, listen for your internal voices - one of those options will feel more comfortable than the other when you imagine yourself doing it. Start with that one. If that doesn't end up being, try the next one...and the next. It will get easier as you determine what is right for you and then you will be living the lifestyle you choose.

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