Before Launching a Business, Ask Yourself These 5 QuestionsHow to know whether the sacrifice is worth it.

Q: I have a startup idea…but how do I know whether it's worth my time to pursue — Nia, Chicago

That's a very important question. In fact, it might be the most important question — and many entrepreneurs bypass it on the road to independence. We're so excited by our 2 a.m. epiphany that we don't want to know the answer. Wefearthat this is our one and only shot, and that another greatideamay never come. But if you skip this self-audit, you may face massive consequences for years to come.

The consequence is this:opportunitycost.