What are some reasons people go into business?

A business not only offers a possible income source, but many entrepreneurs like the high risk-to-reward opportunity of going it alone. Freedom is another major motive. People may start a business to avoid the traditional path of getting a job with an employer and a manager.

Closely related to freedom is schedule flexibility. While business owners may work more than a 40-hour week, they often have greater flexibility to balance work and family life. If an owner has a child's school event, for instance, it is possible to schedule another employee to operate the store or office during that time.