Working on side projects while still employed allows you to hone your skills, gain experience, and understand the entire lifecycle of building something without fully committing to it.

It's important to enjoy the process of developing ideas and working on side projects, as this can indicate readiness to start a company.

After working for an entrepreneur, the next step is to engage in side hustles, like short-term projects, to test your strengths and ideas.

If you stay in a big company for too long, your energy levels can drop, making it harder to launch your own projects later.

Many founders have successfully managed side projects while working, so don't let fears about job security hold you back from pursuing your own ideas.

If you find a collaborator you enjoy working with on side projects, and both of you want to start a company, consider making the jump together.

Consider whether your business needs your full attention to grow. Startups thrive on momentum, and delays can mean missed opportunities. If your business could grow faster or perform better with your full-time commitment, it's worth considering the leap.

If you find yourself in a company that shows signs of ZIRP, such as a lack of productivity or engagement, it might be time to consider finding a new job or starting your own venture.

Experiment with side projects to gain experience in turning ideas into reality, even if they start small.