Copyright 2006 Chris Stirling
Success in business is never automatic. It isn't strictly based on luck - although a little never hurts. It depends primarily on the owner's foresight and organization. Even then, of course, there are no guarantees.
Starting a small business is always risky, and the chance of success is slim. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, over 50% of small businesses fail in the first year and 90% fail within the first five years.
In his book Small Business Management, Michael Ames gives the following reasons for small business failure:
1:Lack of experience
2:Insufficient capital (money)
3:Poor location
4:Poor inventory management
5:Over-investment in fixed assets
6:Poor credit arrangements
7:Personal use of business funds
8:Unexpected growth
Gustav Berle adds two more reasons in The Do It Yourself Business Book:
9:Competition
10:Low sales
More Reasons Why Small Businesses Fail
These figures aren't meant to scare you, but to prepare you for the rocky path ahead. Underestimating the difficulty of starting a business is one of the biggest obstacles entrepreneurs face. However, success can be yours if you are patient, willing to work hard, and take all the necessary steps.
On the Upside
It's true that there are many reasons not to start your own business. But for the right person, the advantages of business ownership far outweigh the risks.
1. You will be your own boss.
2. Hard work and long hours directly benefit you, rather than increasing profits for someone else.
3. Earning and growth potential are far greater.
4. A new venture is as exciting as it is risky.
5. Running a business provides endless challenge and opportunities for learning.
6. Once running a business can create wealth on its own
These positive elements add together to give the entrepreneur or small business owner the best possible chance at business success.
It will be many years, perhaps decades, before we again see such a positive environment for home business launches on the internet.
Winston Churchill said only 15 words in his commencement speech to graduates of one of the most prestigious Universities in the world...OXFORD University:
"CHOOSE YOUR GOALS CAREFULLY AND THEN... NEVER...NEVER...NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL YOU REACH THEM!"
That was his entire speach - because that is all that needs to ebe said when it comes to success.
Follow that philosophy and you can't help but achieve success. Unfortunately so many business owners do not follow that philosophy and that is why so may fail. |
