So you want to start a business. Whether your business is online or a brick and mortar store, there is a lot of information out there. Trying to sort through all of that information can be difficult. One of the best online web sites to head to first is to the U.S. Small Business Administration website. 

This site contains everything from writing a business plan to getting out of the business.

To own your own business, there should be three areas that you NEVER try and circumvent.

1. Dealing with the United States government is #1. Business filings must happen even if you are a sole proprietor.  

2. Keep records of everything!  You will be surprised at what you have to go back to look up.  This will cut your headaches down to one a day as opposed to 10.   Set a a good filing system from the second you conceive your business idea.

3. Do as much as you can on your own.  For example; you do not need to pay someone to file your business name with the Secretary of State in the state you live in.  It is not a complicated process and can be accessed easily online.  I spent a fortune starting my first company, hiring an online business to file my LLC papers.  I found out after the fact I could have done it myself.  In the state of Massachusetts you can file online with the Secretary of State Corporations Divisions or go to the Massachusetts Government Website.  If you need help, call.  I have never had a long wait time and (I can't believe I am saying this) but they were extremely helpful.

As far as running your business, stay honest, be patient, have the right product and the customers will come.  Also remember that failure is an event NOT a person.  If you do not succeed, do not give up.  Keep trying!!!

Best of Luck to you in your endeavors!