You may operate a home business selling services or products, but no matter which kind of business you're in, there's always a question in back of your mind: will my home business succeed or fail, or do I have motivation it takes to keep it afloat? Whichever type of home business you have, it's important that you know ways that you can keep your business going during slack times and/or economic downturns. If cash flow is a problem in your business, you should be sure to make certain that your money management techniques are on target and well refined.

Some of things you can do to make sure your business will survive in 21st century is to avoid impulse expenditures. There are many reasons for impulse spending, even as it applies to business. We may fall under persuasive spell of a salesperson who has talked us into buying things we don't need. Maybe we simply made impulsive purchases because we had a little extra money, or perhaps to keep up appearance of prosperity. Then you realize a few days later that you've committed some of your business funds to products or services that are not necessary for success of your business.

"It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, it is because we do not dare that they are difficult". -- Seneca

Here are some tips to help you avoid these impulse purchases and make certain your business succeeds:

1. You can help control impulse purchases by requiring two (or more) signatures on all company checks over a set amount. This will give you time to seriously consider whether or not you really need product or service you are about to buy.

2. If you are vulnerable, you can get yourself out of grasp of an insistent salesperson if you explain that all purchasing decisions are contingent upon approval of a second party. This so-called second party can be anyone - a partner or a department head or even a family member.

What is required to be successful in your home business? Before we can answer, you must understand what "success" means and what common characteristics successful people have. If you are reading this article, you probably want to be successful and possess a strong sense of perseverance which will pay off in achieving your dreams. The truth is that only a small percentage of people will ever achieve their full potential, and those who do are ones who persevere toward their goals.

Success isn't something you chase. It's something you have to put forth effort for constantly. Then maybe it'll come when you least expect it. Most people don't understand that. -- Michael Jordan

Success is generally looked upon as achieving favorable results and gaining wealth and/or fame, but you must realize that success is different for each individual. For some, a yearly income of a few thousand dollars would be a success, but for another individual it may be several hundred thousand dollars. Whatever your definition of success is, there are several personal characteristics that are common denominators among successful people.

Goals are an important factor in realizing success. Without goals that are realistic, how can you know when your success level has been reached? Successful people set goals for their home business, and perseverance of these goals pays off. Goals should be specific, realistic, measurable, time related and attainable. Your goals can be changed as often as necessary until you reach your ultimate goal, and it will happen if you persevere. Completing your tasks one at a time and then moving on makes task easier and you can see immediate results.

If you want your home business to be successful, following facts, tips and words of encouragement can help you achieve your dreams if you try hard and understand that "perseverance pays off" when starting your home business.