How to Write a Business Plan for Small Business

Writing a business plan for small business is not that difficult. Implementing it and succeeding can be.

Take a step-by-step approach, that is the key in learning how to write a business plan for small business. That is what I am going to do here, and not just provide a business plan outline or template. A link to this is provided at the bottom of this post.

First, reflect carefully on your reasons for starting a business. Then investigate the benefits that experts say you get from business. Do your expectations and these benefits match? If not tread carefully.

Second, reflect on your passion, skills and talents. Does the business you intend starting match this?

Third, who will you help/ serve/ benefit?

Fourth, what do they need?

Do not go further unless you know exactly what the answers are and ideally discuss it with someone you trust. No, not your dog, someone who can talk back and ask difficult questions.

Lastly, write a simple step-by-step blueprint for how you will run this business, what goals you want to achieve. Do this in one sitting, and do it quickly.

Now you can reflect on how to write a business plan for small business, and you will realize that it is not matter of being following a recipe. It is one of getting your own motivation and thinking straight. Once you have thought through the questions above you can rewrite your business plan in more detail.

At this stage there is no shame in deciding that this is not for you and that you would rather work for someone. Most people do. Furthermore, in today's economic climate, people may become desperate for an income. Starting your own business may seem the best solution. This could be true and have worked for many people, but without considering the questions above you may be kicking a hornet's nest. Making a living is not a good enough reason for starting a business with all the hard work that goes with that. Be sure of what you really want, and if it is your own business, then commit to that.

This simple approach should help you focus on the important stuff and progress. Understand the big picture and then fill in the detail. Remember you are the pilot, not the maintenance crew, or the flight attendant, or the baggage handler. Stay focused on being the pilot of your business.