Don't skip any steps. Basic to getting this learning curve out of way is setting up your tools. By that, I mean:

· getting your business cards ordered, · setting up your 800 number, · getting your FAX system in place (if you plan to have one), · putting your contact email in place, · getting your website up and running, · setting up your merchant account, · placing your initial order with company (if necessary), · filing all your required paperwork with company, · getting your local vendor's license, business license, and anything else required by your local city, county, or state government.

While you are completing above processes, create folders for each project to hold all copies of paperwork you'll be getting. Be sure to keep a copy of everything that you send out, whether by FAX, email, or snail mail.

Meanwhile, in between setting up all above, read or listen to each step of training in succession, because in most cases, one thing builds on other. Take time to learn your ABC's and don't worry about what you will take up in "college"! You won't have to concern yourself with college studies if you don't learn your ABC's first!

And above all, keep things as simple as possible. Not only for your own sake, but because, if you don't, people you present your opportunity to will get idea that things are much too complicated in your business to get involved with it.

They won't believe that they can learn it. They won't want to. But if it appears to be simple for you, they'll see that it would be simple for them, and you'll increase your success rate dramatically!

Financial Realities:

>Cash Reserves: I have little cash reserves and manage to stay afloat.There are times when I have it and times I do not. I need to keep my telephone, Internet Service Provider, and website paid to date.They are my top priorities and advertising is a must.

>Retirement Planning: Definitely a must, IRA's work and so do 401k plans and savings accounts. Examine possibilities.

>Health Insurance: You definitely need to find some coverage. I am covered under my husband's plan for now.

>Vacation: No Pay...Yep, that's right! Be prepared before you schedule a vacation. It's Christmas Day and I am writing an article at 3 am.!

Situation Realities:

>Hard Work-Long Hours: It must be nice to work at home!..how many times have I heard that? Too Many! I am sick of home! I still spend on average, eight hours a day on my computer as compared to twelve-fifteen in beginning. A kind word of warning, take breaks often..it's tough to move after a few hours at computer. Health problems will develop if you sit too long. Also remember to get enough sleep, a must!

>Interruptions: Plenty of them. Not only from kids and spouse, but dogs and cat and phone and door and everything in between.This requires concentration above all...stay focused on whatever it is you are doing.

>Distractions: Alot like interruptions..but last longer usually. I learned to do those household tasks along side business tasks. This may not work for you. I find it serves as a break in monotony and refreshes your mind. In fact, I do several tasks throughout day and keep my computer booted.

>Isolation and Loneliness: In addition to Elena's ideas, often a trip to a friend's house or a walk may cure blues. Another tip is to play music in background as you work.

Make 2002 year for your home business startup or not...

I will move forward in my business even though my first year was a bit scary at times. I have overcome scary part and learned to deal with ups and downs, good times and bad, and unsuspected wrong turns. But overall my business has proved to be successful through first year and "Yes", I did make money. Enough to pay some of my bills, but it was an improvement and that's why I continue to work at home.