What Kind of Business Do You Want to Run?

I think this should be your first question once you've decided you want to start a business. Different types are businesses have different operational requirements. For instance, if you start a retail store, you will have to keep the store open and staffed during regular shopping hours. Specific types of businesses have their own specialized demands. If you open a bakery, you or someone you hire is going to have to get up each morning at 4 a.m. to get the day's baking under way.

You also need to consider how much work you want to go through to start a business. Starting a business from scratch can be immensely satisfying - but there's no question that starting a turnkey operation is easier.

So what kind of business should you start? Which type of business will best suit your personality, abilities and lifestyle? Find out by working through the five decisions in What Type of Business Should You Start?

More starting a business advice

• The Two Paths to Starting a Business
• 5 Resources You Need to Succeed
• Traits You Need to Move From Being an Employee to Being-Self-Employed