Millions of people hate their jobs, or have recently lost one, and would love to start a small business. Yet very few actually try, because the process feels as scary as jumping off a cliff. No matter how boring or stressful a job might be, it’s hard to give up a salary and benefits. But for some, it can be the smartest, happiest decision of a lifetime.Pamela Slim, a former corporate training manager, went solo 12 years ago and has enjoyed every bit of it. In 2005 she started a blog called Escape from Cubicle Nation to help others make the same jump; it quickly attracted a loyal following and national media attention. Slim explores both the big emotional issues of leaving the corporate world and the nuts and bolts of launching a business. She explains the amazing new opportunities to use social networks, Web marketing, and “lifehacking” technology to quickly become profitable, while still having time for family and other pursuits. Drawing on anecdotes from her own career, as well as true stories from her coaching clients and blog readers, Slim will help readers weigh their options, and make a successful escape if they decide to go for it.