The fact that you're reading this article says that you probably want to own and operate a business. In all likelihood you also have a good idea of what that business will be. I'll give you some help to ensure you've selected the business that's right for you.

Your business success will be directly proportional to how much you love what you are doing.

Considering the amount of effort you will need to expend as an entrepreneur to make your venture successful, the business you select should be something you love. There are lots of reasons why people choose to start a new business. At the top of the list is dissatisfaction with their present job. If this is your situation, try to understand why you don't like your present job. This will help you select a business that will be right for you.

Select a business because you have something to give, because you understand the market and because you know you are going to do a better job than anyone else. Don't pick one because you want to make a quick buck or because the "deal looks just too good to pass up." If your heart and soul are in the business, you have a much better chance of being successful.

The business you choose should fit with realistic goals and an honest assessment of yourself. The following checklist will help you decide on a business that can be successful for you. Bruce bought a fast food franchise because the opportunity looked too good to pass up. It might have been, but Bruce knew nothing about the food or restaurant business, and as far as I knew, didn't even like fast food! Care to guess how successful he was? Or how long it lasted? Care to guess what happened even though "all the details are taken care of for you?"

CHECKLIST: CHOOSING A BUSINESS