For countless reasons, more and more people are leaving the work-for-someone-else world and hanging up their own shingles.

But without proper planning and execution, the road to entrepreneurship can be bumpy and even treacherous.

Cynthia Kay provides excellent guidance. Herself a successful entrepreneur, she’s founder of an award-winning media production and communications firm and serves clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses and non-profits. She’s former board chair for the National Small Business Association and author of Small Business, Big Business: Proven Strategies to Beat the Odds and Grow a Great Business.

Strategic planning helps entrepreneurs stay focused, adapt to market shifts, and make informed decisions rather than reactive ones. Ultimately, it lays the foundation for scalable growth and a resilient business model.

* To help avoid future disappointment (or worse), create a “business prenup” if you’re partnering with someone else in your entrepreneurial enterprise.

* As an entrepreneur, it’s wise to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you are in matters outside your primary focus.

* Before trying to scale your business, honestly assess your team and other resources to ensure you’re ready for prime time.

* If you didn’t draft and agree on a “business prenup” when you formed your business, what can you do now to clarify expectations with your partners and/or co-workers?

* Reach out to a mentor or trusted peer and ask for feedback on your current business challenge. Don’t build your dream in a silo.

* List three bottlenecks in your business—then pick one to simplify, automate, or delegate this week. Small tweaks can unlock surprising momentum.

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