How can I start my own Mafia?

You see, due to a demoralizing home life, grim academic rating, a lack of ability in the pursuit of legitimate business, and several other handicaps it seems like my only option is to head into the life of crime. An advantage I have unlike many of the s usually ociated with the underworld is that ability to efficiently lead and an amount of intelligence an academic would hold. Is there anyway I can descend into a life of crime? I am unable to function in the realms of legitimate business and so a life of criminal activities or perhaps a life of corrupt political strategy (in the realm of Hitler, Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Etc.). Any advice?