One of the first things every starting business owner does is simply check out what they have available for their potential customer. It's also important to know what supplies you have to keep your product or services going. Better yet, once you have a better idea about your inventory, figuring out where to keep all that stuff.

Before you get all the larger moving parts going, just move on to the ones that won't break your budget. That can mean things like setting up the legal identity for your business, setting up business bank accounts, etc. These inexpensive parts set up a base that will help you think of other parts of your business you haven't thought of yet.

You don't have to go over the top on expenses when you start. You can use freelancers instead of hiring staff so they can work on a project-by-project basis. Office supplies can be bought in bulk and electronics can be repaired instead of replaced.

That sounds simple enough, right? But if you really don't know all the ins and outs of how that landscape works - whether it's photography, HVAC or dog grooming - you'll waste valuable time. The more you understand the business, the more you can keep it afloat.

Remember that it's a marathon and not a sprint. Some businesses do blow up overnight, but most take months, if not years, to get to a point they can call comfortable. Successful businesses only come from those who stayed in the long haul.

You can look at a yearly goal like most people, but it makes sense to take it down a notch. Perhaps put down monthly goals (sales, clients, views) or if you will hit one particular project by the first quarter. This all works as long as it's profitable and doesn't make too many expenses.

Sometimes the best new clients in a new business are old ones you can provide new services for. You can keep them by giving them more than expected at first. If they ask questions or need help, answer whenever possible. 

It should never just be about making money. If you are starting something, make it something that will fulfill your interests and worth putting the effort into. Entrepreneurs that have focused on what they loved have been financially successful because of it.

If you decide to not go it alone, your partner in crime has to be a person that is not only dependable but compatible. They should be able to cover parts of the business that you can't or boost services to a higher level. It makes no sense sharing the profits and stress with a partner who will just give you friction. 

Sometimes it will pay off to think ahead and prepare for your business. You can work on small tasks leading to something big, but it wouldn't hurt to hold off and wait for a better opportunity. 

The economy will rise and fall, and industries shift at breakneck speeds. If you have made the right foundation for your business then you must be ready for the growth that comes with success. If the market has changed radically, then maybe it's time to redo your business plan.

This is the part of the operation that holds everything together. You have to make one that fits your needs and that of your clients. Most importantly, it has to be unique.

It is your baby, so it is also up to you to know it is all going well. That means being there for all meetings, design choices or any parts of the process. The only way to have a successful company is to know every part of it, so you have to be at every part of it, too.

A business is no different from any other part of work; networking is essential. There are plenty of start-up meetups and mentorships that can be found for new small businesses. Or you can just talk to another local business owner over a cup of coffee.

A small business will especially feel the effect of bad morale if the staff is not getting the respect they deserve. Find ways to get them enthusiastic about their work or to remind them that they are a part of a team.