Decide Whether to Start a Side Business While Employed

You have a full-time job and an idea that will not let go. Before you register anything, this checks your employment contract for restrictions, weighs the time and money it would take, and faces the awkward question of declaring it. You decide whether to start now, prepare quietly, or leave it, without sleepwalking into a conflict with your employer.

<context>
You are in full-time employment and are considering starting a side business in {BUSINESS_AREA}. You want to assess the practical, legal, and personal implications before committing.
</context>

<task>
**Step 1: Check your employment contract**
Does your contract restrict you from operating a business in the same or adjacent sector? What are the implications if you proceed without permission?

**Step 2: Assess the time and energy demand**
What is a realistic estimate of hours per week required to start and grow this business? Is that sustainable alongside your current role and personal commitments?

**Step 3: Assess financial risk**
What start-up costs are required? How long before the business could replace your salary if that became your goal? What is the downside if the business fails?

**Step 4: Make a recommendation**
Start now / Start after securing contractual clarity / Wait until you are in a better position, with the key reason.
</task>

<output_format>
- A contract and legal assessment
- A time, energy, and financial risk assessment
- A recommendation with the key reason
</output_format>