Getting into business takes lot of homework. You have to do a lot of reading, both magazines, books, ezines (online business newsletters) and business courses. The best magazines to start with are "Entrepreneur Magazine" and Income Opportunities" which can give you an idea on type of business you would like to run. You can find these magazines on newsstands or bookstores such as Barnes and Noble. Checking out business section in bookstores is also helpful. On-line providers have business sections which can be very helpful to beginner as well as those who are experienced.

Knowing that we want to have a business of our own is not enough. Many of us have struggled with important question of what type of enterprise we would like to start.

Franchises offer a simple pre-packaged money making idea, but cost of a franchise often makes it a prohibitive option to most folks who contemplate going out on their own.

For those who do not have a million dollars to buy a McDonalds franchise, we must look to other ideas for our own business.

There are literally hundreds of lucrative home business ideas for you to choose from, which will suit every type of personality and all levels of financing. From selling information on Internet as a infopreneur, to growing delicious gourmet mushrooms for sale to restaurants and catering companies; there is a pile of money to be made by filling a need, for these and a host of other necessary services.

Of course, actually liking what you do, will have a lot to do with success of your new venture, so be sure to pick a home business that you'll enjoy running and that will keep you motivated.

For example, if you're a math whiz, an accounting or income tax service might be ideal home business for you to start. Perhaps writing is your forte and you'd like to start your own home based copywriting service or advertising agency. Each of these businesses can be run successfully--and profitably from comfort of your own home.

Academia might not be your cup of tea, but maybe you are good with your hands --- having a creative genius where crafts are concerned. Craft items are red-hot sellers at swap meets, country fairs and world wide over Internet, and they can provide you with solid profits. If crafts don't interest you, then why not start a laundry service with pick-up and delivery, or a shopping service for shut-in's--even a companion service or granny sitter or a doctor shuttle service; any of which, could be much in demand, in and around your neighborhood or community.