Business

So you want to start your own business. Maybe you're really knowledgeable and passionate about something, or you've found a way to fill a gap in the marketplace. Wherever your interests lie, there's almost certainly a way to turn it into a business.

This journey isn't an easy one, though: Starting a business requires a lot of time, effort and hard work, and many would-be entrepreneurs end up failing. But if your company survives, the rewards are well worth the obstacles you'll face on the road to success.

There's a lot to consider and plan before you launch, and it's important to prepare yourself for entrepreneurship. If you think you're ready to start your first business, here's a step-by-step overview of what you need to do to make it happen.