Leaving behind a job you’ve become accustomed to is never easy and there are many reasons that people say goodbye to a job. Some leave a job because they’ve outgrown the work and are no longer challenged mentally.

Others leave because of office politics or poor pay despite all their hard work. A few leave a job because they’ve decided that it’s time to be their own boss. Maybe that’s you and you’re planning a new and exciting future away from the same old grind but you’re not quite sure how to exit gracefully.

Never burn bridges. Though it’s tempting to finally get everything you’ve been holding in off your chest, you never know when you might need that former boss as a reference or as a networking opportunity, so make sure that you leave gracefully.

Give a two-week notice and clear everything out of your to-do box to make the transition easier for the next person who will fill your shoes. Gather all of the contact information from colleagues and customers so that you can stay in touch with those you like and also to form new loyalties in the future with your own business.

Remember that timing is important. While it’s great to dream, you can’t pay the mortgage with a dream. So get the finances in order before you wave adios to your boss. Plus, you don’t want the stress of finances nipping at your heels.

Work hard before you quit to pay a few months ahead on all of your utilities and credit cards and other financial obligations. Tuck away enough money in savings to get support yourself while your business is in the start up phase. You’ll be glad you don’t have that pressure.

Being your own boss is exciting, but it can also be trying if you’ve never been responsible for a business before. First, do your homework. Have a focused marketing plan for your business and put it to work.

Remember that most businesses don’t see profit overnight. But with a steady dedication you will succeed. Remember the colleagues you said goodbye to? Now is the time to network with them. Tap into their circle of contacts to spread the word about your business.

Don’t buy into the myth that you have to spend a lot of money to make money. Your business budget shouldn’t be spent on fancy gadgets for the office or advertising. Instead, look for all of the free avenues you can take to build your business.

You don’t have to spend money to make it. Have a business plan and stick to the plan. You might even consider setting in place some trusted advisors and give them veto power to help keep you from making some of the mistakes that start up businesses commonly make.