Looking to communicate with aspie entrepreneurs...

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Hello. Let me start with a little about myself and my studies. I was diagnosed when I was five in 1994 or thereabouts. Kind of surprised some people that I ended up in college. Kind of always dreamed of making movies ever since I was a kid, but after studying screenwriting at Ithaca College I have realized that not only is at hard to make a living, but it doesn't come all that naturally to me. Even though I'm a senior and wouldn't change my major when I can't be sure I can stick with it, I really want to explore career changes. I've taken electives in business, but I haven't minored in it, because I wouldn't do well in the math courses. What I've realized over the course of my education and my social life is that I work my hardest when I have constructive feedback, but also have a certain amount of control. When a professor is grading me that really isn't possible. That's why I think I may do well if I can start a business that's right for me. Preferably an online business, because I'm particularly comfortable in front of a computer. I'd even be willing to consider tying it into the film industry, or perhaps social networking, online dating, an even disabilities. My goal is to have a business idea by the end of the spring semester so I can write a plan for it as my last course before I graduate. I have a professor who is the right person to help me with it. So I guess I'd just like to hear some success stories from aspies who have made a living starting their own business, and perhaps get some advice on where to brainstorm my ideas.

Hi

I made a software company that lasted 3 years, I have become an expert in what not to do. Here is what came in my mind when I read your post.

Experience.
You need to know how the market operates and where are the gaps you can fill. You must have an accurate view of what is the need and what are the offers (and that's not simple)
If you have no professional experience, there is a huge risk you will miss some basics about how a company operates (invoicing, accountancy, legal duties, legal protection, employment rules... yee-ha)

Planning.
Realistic planning is key. Too much optimism or pessimism may discredit you in front of anyone involved with your business (investor, partner, employees, customers)
It is unlikely that you will have some income or spare time in the first few months, you must be prepared for that

People.
You will be dealing with people a lot, and when money is involved everything change.
Find people that have the skills/qualities you don't, and don't have the skills/qualities you have
Separate tasks, separate responsibilities but always know what's going on: you're in charge
Avoid involving friends, family or lovers.

It's hard but exiting, costly but rewarding. Find the idea

Thanks. That's very sound advice. I don't really have any friends or family with the same career interests as I have, so I wouldn't do that anyway. Of course it takes time to make a profit. I don't know who gets high income early on with a bachelor's degree these days, especially with one in film. I'd certainly rather invest in a small business than in grad school at this point.