by Julie Mccray

Created on: August 31, 2007

The Small Business Facts of Life

So you want to launch your own business and you don't know if it's right for you. I've always had entrepreneurial drive and I've asked myself countless times if I want to take the risk that comes with jumping out on my own. My main focus is launching a handmade jewelry business, but the idea's the same for anyone that wants to start and grow their own business.

If you're thinking about starting your own business, you must have big dreams. You probably fantasize about exotic vacations, sleeping late, and not having to answer to anyone. I still reminisce about those things and the beautiful thing is that it's possible. Considering you're prepared to take the necessary time to put in the work needed to grow into a profitable business.

Many people have told me that it could take months or years for a business to become profitable. Your business profitability is determined by many factors and the most important factor is YOU. If you're contemplating and ready to take that leap of faith, you need to focus on if you have what it takes to get there. There are many facts that come with starting your own business on any scale. Maybe you one day want to be incorporated with thousands of employees or maybe you just want to keep things as simple as your home computer and a quiet corner of your bedroom. Whatever your ultimate dream is, there are many facts you must face.

Fact 1:

You May Be Working When No One Else Is

Remember that 9-5 that you hated so much? That was a structured schedule. The beauty of building your own business is that you can set your own schedule, but it's still going to have to fit around your personal obligations; family, friends, life events, etc. Having your own business will provide you with much flexibility but you may find that you're still waking up early during the week to post on your weblog or to upload pictures of new merchandise on Ebay. You even may realize that you're working through the night at times, bookkeeping and carrying out the other business responsibilities that you couldn't tend to because you still have a day job and only work the business part time. So whatever the case, be prepared to analyze your time. Every minute counts.

Fact 2:

Everything's On You

You are everything to your business. You are your business's most important asset. You have to wear many hats. There is no management under you to make sure things run smoothly while you do CEO-like things (vacation, nap, long lunches). Obviously,

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