How do you feel about using retirement savings to start up a new business, especially when it's a business I always wanted to try? Until relatively recently, the technology just wasn't available to do it. I am 62 years old.

If you're looking for a yes or no on this one, I won't be of much help. You'll need to consult a specialist or two in the field of financial management and market analysis. But I'll bet you've already decided to go ahead and take the gamble. If so - congratulations! Go for it and good luck!

But just in case you're still on the fence, you'll need to consult the one specialist who knows you best. That's you. Here's how to do it.

When I do seminars on this subject I usually have attendees answer some basic questions. Try these exercises on for size:

1.You're talking to someone about how you would have handled a situation if you had been in their place. In your scenario, do you:

a. Take charge? ('I would have made sure that…')

b. Assume you have superior experience? ('That same thing happened to me once and I …')

c. Advise caution? ('Be careful and go slow. Don't rush into it.')

d. Advise action? ('You only live once. Go for the gusto!')

2.Talk with your best and closest friends about how they see your strengths and weaknesses. Really listen. Don't be offended if their opinion is different than yours. Don't justify yourself. Don't make excuses. (At the same time, don't necessarily believe that they are right and you are wrong if they see you differently than you see yourself.)

3.Someone gives you all the money you'll ever need. What do you do with the rest of your life?

4.You're lying in bed at night trying to get to sleep. You decide to tell yourself a story, starring you. What are you doing in the story?

These questions can't replace solid advice from people who know what they're talking about. On the other hand, the world is full of success stories about people who took a risk, did the unexpected and triumphed. Only you know how much a dream means to you and whether or not you are comfortable going for it.

(By the way - Good luck! Let me know how it comes out.)