Most Tasks are Simple, Not Difficult

One question that I'm frequently asked by individuals starting businesses is, "How do I register my business?" Most people believe the process is complex when it fact it's very easy.

This morning I traveled to my county clerk's office. That's the place, no matter where you live in the U.S., where business registration forms are kept. The clerk's assistant asked me to write the business name on paper. She researched the name to make sure it's not being used by another party. Then she asked me to complete a one-page form. That took me two minutes.

The assistant checked the form, notarized it, accepted my payment, and gave me the paperwork that shows the newly-registered business name. It was a quick, easy, and painless process.

I believe that we make things difficult in our minds before we begin the process. However, if you have a "piece of cake" attitude, you'll find that most tasks are simple to accomplish.

That's the type of thinking that gives you more time to enjoy life. I'm all for that.

Packing Tips for Business Travelers

There was once a time when I traveled by airplane with a heavy load. I'd add gift basket items in my large suitcase and place my clothes in a smaller one. I think back and still can't believe what I went through.

My load is much lighter thanks to my decision to ship items ahead of time. In addition, travel's not what it used to be. Ask any business traveler. It's a necessity more than fun.

Instead of four bags, I now carry two, and they both come onboard the plane with me so that I bypass the luggage merry-go-round and go straight to my transportation. Here's what keeps my load light for an average 3-4 day trip.

1. Two pairs of pants and tops that match each other are all that's required for most trips.

2. I bring workout clothes to exercise at hotel facilities. When rolled, the clothes fit inside of my sneakers. It's a great use of space.

3. Large-sized toiletries fit in a sleeve with pre-designated pockets which I place in an upright position in the smaller bag. The toiletries required for inspection are placed in the FAA-approved plastic bag, which is kept in an outer luggage pocket for easy reach.

4. All electronics are added to the smaller carry-on case.

5. Jewelry is placed in a pouch within the smaller bag and worn after passing through the detector. No more taking it off while trying to watch my shoes, bags, ticket, and passport.

If something doesn't fit into either piece of luggage, it stays at home or in the office.

I'll put my rules to the test as I travel to speaking engagements in Miami, Orlando, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia.

Walk First, Then Run

Many new business owners wish to go from zero to 60 in one day. Their plan is to start a business in the morning and make a wad of cash by day's end.

Wouldn't it be grand if this actually happened? But just think: if that were the norm, there would be so many barriers to entering your chosen business that you'd never get started.

It's wonderful to create a idea in your mind, decide what steps to take to make it a reality, and transfer the plan onto paper before moving forward. That's what smart entrepreneurs learn on the SoloBusinessMarketing.com Web site and blog. It's the blueprint I followed in 1990, and today I'm reaping the rewards of many seeds sown and lessons learned throughout the years.

Remember one thing as you start your journey: nothing turns to gold overnight. It will take perserverance and dedication to create a successful enterprise and lifestyle. Every step will be worthwhile, whether you get lucky or suffer missteps. Both will occur; there's no way around it.

Right now you're at point A, and you can see point B directly in front of you. Walk steadily towards your destination, because if you run, you'll suffer more setbacks than you'll encounter at a manageable pace. Success is waiting for you, and it's worth the effort.

Visit Solo Business Marketing and the Gift Basket Business Web site and blog for more tips on creating a successful business.

Making Gift Baskets is More Than a Hobby

Since 1990, it's been my honor to be part of the gift basket business. I've watched designers come and go, and I've also witnessed healthy growth in an industry that some consider as a hobby.

Gift baskets are a part-time venture for some, but for many, it's much more than that. When you speak to full-time business owners who earn revenues between $15,000 and $2 million and see the sparkle in their eyes as they talk about their passion, you quickly realize that making gift baskets is a calling.

Not everyone can take a collection of items and turn them into a masterpiece. That's what designers do every day.

I'll be speaking about gift baskets at trade shows throughout the U.S. You'll find the events listed on the classes page at GiftBasketBusiness.com. I hope to see you and learn how you turn your passion into a successful, income-producing lifestyle.