There’s something about the fresh start of a new year that makes people look at their lives a little differently. Maybe you’ve felt it too, that nudge, that spark, that what if?
If you’re thinking 2026 might finally be your year to start a business, here are five signs that tell you you’re more ready than you realise… and how Welsh ICE can help you take the leap.
1. You’re Craving More Flexibility
If the 9-5 routine has stopped working for you, you’re not alone. Traditional employment has its benefits, but it can also limit your freedom, creativity, and control over your time.
Running your own business can give you:
- A schedule that fits your life
- The freedom to work from home, a coffee shop, or a coworking space
- The chance to ditch the daily commute and reclaim your time
With more people working remotely than ever, becoming your own boss could give you the work-life balance you’ve been dreaming of.
2. You Want to Do Something That Actually Excites You
Many founders start a business because they’re passionate about an idea, a skill, or an industry.
If your current job doesn’t give you room to explore your creativity or align with what truly matters to you, then starting your own business could be the path to a more fulfilling career. Whether it’s baking, tech, beauty, gaming, consulting, or crafting, passion-led businesses often become the most rewarding ones.
3. You’ve Got an Idea That Won’t Leave You Alone
Maybe it started as a side hustle. Maybe it’s been sitting in the notes app on your phone for months.
Whatever it is, if you’ve got a business idea that keeps coming back, no matter how busy life gets, that’s a sign.
Starting small is completely fine. Many people test their ideas alongside work, earning extra income while building confidence and checking if the idea is viable.
4. You’re Ready for a Challenge (In the Best Way)
Starting a business isn’t easy, but that’s part of the appeal for many new founders.
Becoming your own boss means learning new skills, stretching outside your comfort zone, and taking ownership of your time, money, and goals. You don’t need to know everything before you start. With the right support, you can learn as you go, and the sense of achievement you get is unmatched.
5. You Want to Earn More and Build Something That’s Yours
Traditional work can limit your earning potential. When you’re self-employed, your income can grow in line with your ambition.
With planning and hard work, running your own business can unlock:
- Higher earning potential
- Profit shares and dividends
- Long-term business value
- Even the opportunity to sell your business in the future
If you want financial freedom and long-term growth, starting your own business can be the gateway.
Not Sure Where You’re At? Take the Quiz
If you’re nodding along but still wondering, “Am I actually ready?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Starting a business isn’t a yes-or-no moment; it’s a journey.
That’s why we’ve created a quick quiz to help you understand where you’re at right now, and what kind of support will suit you best.
Take the quiz below to see what your next step could be!
Is Starting a Business Right for You? Quiz
For each question, choose the answer that feels most like you.
How to Start With Welsh ICE
The good news? There has never been more support available for new entrepreneurs.
From government-backed Start-Up Loans to community hubs, networks, workshops, and online tools, starting a business is more accessible than ever. Technology has levelled the playing field, making it quicker, cheaper, and easier to launch something from scratch.
And this is where Welsh ICE comes in.
Whether you’re at the early idea stage or ready to grow something you’ve already started, we’ve built support specifically for people like you.
The 5-9 Club 🌙
An 8-week after-hours business course designed for people who are building an idea around work, life, and everything in between.
You’ll learn the fundamental skills you need to turn an idea into a real business, all taught by industry experts in a friendly, supportive, fun environment.
Perfect if you’ve got an idea and want help turning it into something real.
ICE Start Membership ❄️
Unlimited Hotdesking. A Registered Address. Support. Community. And more.
If your business is under two years old, you could get 6 months of Welsh ICE membership for just £25/month (usually £100).
More and more people are taking that leap, turning hobbies into businesses, chasing long-held dreams, or finally choosing themselves. ICE Start gives you the perfect landing spot.
With ICE Start, you get:
- Unlimited hotdesking at our coworking space in Caerphilly
- A Registered Business Address
- Workshops and networking events
- 121 expert support
- A directory listing on the Welsh ICE website
- Access to our members-only Facebook group with 500+ entrepreneurs
It’s everything you need to stop building your business at the kitchen table and start building it in a community of supportive, ambitious founders.
2026 Could Be the Year Everything Changes
Thousands of people across the UK start businesses every year, not because they have everything figured out, but because they’re ready to try.
If any part of this blog made you think that’s me, then maybe 2026 is your year too.
So…
Are you ready to press start on your business journey? 🚀
