Everyone loves Grandma's cookies. In fact you may look forward to going to her house just to eat them.They are most likely so great because she makes them herself. Shes mixes the eggs, flour, butter and whatever her secret is to make them so freaking amazing. And you and I both know, if she bought cookies or even did the tear and bake cookies it would not be the same. The same is true with business. In opening your own business, you are doing the same thing, as you are putting everything together yourself, giving it your own special touch, most likely sweat and tears,to make it a success. Opening your own business requires a lot of work especially in the beginning stages, here are some tips to get you started.(GMVozd/Getty Images)
You have just started working with Agent J and Agent K, but before going into the field you must conduct recon on everything relevant to the case. OK, so your not a top secret unofficial government agent, regulating alien immigration, or an actor working on the next "Men in Black" movie. But, you are someone looking to open a business, that is your mission. For that you need to conduct all of the preliminary research recon on everything related to your business. (Lorraine Boogich/Getty Images)
You just found free tickets to your favorite amusement park. But, you found them late and by time you get there you will only have three hours to enjoy them. There's a lot to do, not a lot of time and oh yea a mile long line at every ride. You need to make a plan and prioritize, you don't want to miss this year's newest ride, I heard it's in the running for steepest drop ride of the year. Just like planning a day at the amusement park you need a plan for your business. There are a lot of things that must be done to have a successful open and business. Creating a plan early in the process and referencing it as you go on will help keep you on track to accomplish everything necessary. (C3PICS/Getty Images)
Kylie and Johnny and are on their way to a friend's party on the lake, as you can probably tell, they are lost and Kylie is not having it. Johnny was supposed to ask for directions but didn't want to look like he needed help so he didn't. Don't be Johnny, just ask for help. Asking for help is necessary, especially when opening a business. Find another veteran business owner or a friend who has their own business and get their perspective and advice, as it will only make your business better. And whatever you do, just stop and and ask for directions, cause Johnny may be sleeping on the sofa for while.(Deagreez/Getty Images)
Something tell's me this is the last bill in the wallet. And if I'm right, uh oh is right! Opening a business requires a good amount of money upfront whether it be from a loan or savings, it will be needed. Before opening a business, you need to make sure your finances are in order. You may want to talk to a financial counselor, or a mentor to discuss how much cash would be needed to start and hopefully make sure you aren't going to have your last bill nervous for you.(DNY59/Getty Images)
Editor's note: This article was contributed by Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Find more at https://ivmf.syracuse.edu. (Jo Jones/Public Domain)