These tips were gathered from the "How to Articles" at the bottom of the page. You can start and operate your own business from scratch. Or you can buy into a franchise and open up your own location. Or you can sign on with a company that helps you setup shop selling their products, giving you a commission of what's sold. Legitimate network marketing such as, Mary Kay Cosmetics and Avon. You open your own business by reselling their products. And you can do it by going door-to-door, having parties, just telling people, placing ads, etc TIP: Beware of network marketing companies that simply have you recruit other salespeople who'll do the same. This is a classic pyramid scheme and is illegal! Start your own business without becoming part or joing another company. This is true self-employment because you're it! Here, you operate independent of anybody else, except for any government regulations. Before you jump in and start your own business, investigate things very carefully! Do you know the business you're getting into? How much will it take to startup and run it? Do you already have customers in mind or are you starting totally from scratch? How will you attract business/customers? And how much will this cost? Use your experience, skills and talents. Types of business: Writing (books, articles, technical manuals) landscape maintenance; pet sitting; fixing computers/electronics; second hand store; child care; elder care; photographer (children, landscapes); motivational speaker; account technician; peer counselor