Small Biz Startup Tips

Are you thinking of starting a business? Good for you! But do consider your motives when choosing a business to start. What do you hope to get out of the business besides income? If you answer, "nothing," you may not make it as an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurs are often motivated to start businesses for three reasons: income opportunity; sense of purpose or fulfillment; and to be their own boss. Even if you hate working for someone else it is important that for as long as you are employed you show your employer respect and maintain a great working relationship with your boss.

Some people wake in the night with a business idea or have a eureka! moment they scrawl on a cocktail napkin (Southwest Airlines was born on a cocktail napkin.) But many people who long to be self-employed are not sure what type of business to start. Desperate, on or a whim, they think of ideas without thinking about building a business.

If you are starting a business, be sure to involve your family right from the start. Don't wait until problems and resentment arise over your long work hours or until you hear "all you ever talk about is your business - you don't care about us anymore."

First Year Business Start-Up Tips: Few small businesses make a profit their first year. You need to plan for unexpected expenses and temporary lost income. Here are tips to help you start a business without going bankrupt or losing all your family and friends.