Goals, Outcomes, Questions...

Besides my wonderful marriage (of 15+ years),  I have never entered into a partnership venture before.   With that being said,  I'm at a loss for roadmap as to how to process and proceed with our new cookbook venture.    Traditional religious weddings come with a set of plans, agreements, etc. to make it easy on us newly engaged folks with our gaga smiles and goo-goo eyes.  But, what about business partnerships?  

It seems as if May and I are in the "honeymoon" phase of our venture with big dreams and lofty plans.  May tells me she pictures us on the Today show doing cooking demos.  "Or we could be at the Farmer's Market selling our cookbooks."she gleams.   I love those ideas but yet - yikes, I am more comfortable behind the scene.  Perhaps its time to make sure we are both on the same wavelength with outcome goals.

It has come to my attention that all good partnerships shall not only start with enthusiasm and determination but also with a shared vision.   I always hated the yearly goal setting exercise that my boss made us do,  but I realize its importance, especially in a teamwork setting.      Last week we said "jump" and the net will appear.  Err,  I'm frightened and want to at least visualize that net.

So the process continues.   We are both exploring healthy recipes that are easily adaptable to all dietary restrictions especially low carb and gluten free.    We are coming together with recipes our families like and new ideas for recipes.    My fear is that we haven't nailed down our niche market - or have we?   

Questions to consider as we progress:

1.  Name your top three priorities for work/life balance?  

2.  What would your ideal role is this project look like?

3.  What is our plan after creating this cookbook?  

4.  How will we market and sell it?

5.  How much money are we willing to invest?