This takes 120% dedication. Self motivation is #1 on what you must possess! If ur not selfmotivated, then who's gonna do the work to make u money! Depending on what kind of business, will depend on what kind of contacts you MUST have, in your back pocket! Another thing, be prepared to work weekends, holidays, nights and everywhere in between, especially when your first starting ur new business. Now, depending on your trade you need to sit down and write it all down; 1.) Are you going to have help, employees, 2.)where will your business operate(home, office, mobile?) 3.) Get a business phone, don't use ur personal phone. The phone companies have great business lines that are affordable! 4.) A pet peeve of mine, KEEP EVERY RECEIPT FROM THIS POINT FORWARD! And I mean every one. No matter where its from or what u bought! Almost EVERYTHING CAN BE USED AS A WRITEOFF FOR TAX PURPOSES.. From going out to eat, the movies, (that falls under the entertainment catagory), home furniture, tools, clothes, (all expenses can be used to ur advantage!) You never know, so keep the receipts. The IRS will allow you to loose money for the first 3years your in business. They expect you too! The number of years may vary from state to state. So be sure to check with a tax pro! Again let me say, even older receipts keep! Because before a business can start, u must buy products. Weather its paper pencils, glue or even stamps! Yes its all considetered a right off. Faxing, copying, paying your bills! The more receipts you can compile and keep for your book keeper, ( even if unare him) the better off you will be! Thanks for reading my post. All the luck to you on your new business! God Bless You Ainslie Schmidt Apple Valley, CA.