Do it for passion not just for money!

You will find it easier to spend time and work hard if you're motivated by your passions not by money.

Don't do it because you want power and control, but because you believe in yourself and what you want to do. You can make the changes.

Do something that you already know about and are interested in, and look for gaps where you could do something better than others are doing it.

Brainstorm; generate ideas no matter how bizarre and then look at the reality of them. Turn things on their head; look at things differently - don't be afraid to have a different approach to others if you know it will work for you.

Start talking ideas to anybody and everybody. All input, good and bad, is invaluable! Talk, brainstorm, write it down; then develop the idea, do some research, talk, adapt, research, talk, get feedback, pilot your idea.

Look at Tips on Business Ideas, and for more help on whether you should make that first step answer the questions in the Running Your Own Business: A Checklist?

Register to access the complete range of training programmes, factsheets, tips and templates that will guide you through the process with one-to-one mentoring if you need it.