"When we consider a project, we really study it - not just the surface idea but everything about it. And when we go into that new project, we believe in it all the way. We have confidence in our ability to do it right. And we work hard to do the best possible job." (Walt Disney)

Have you ever wanted to start a small business?

Have you ever thought it was tough to do so?

Unsure of how to get it started?

Or do you have a business that you want to get on track or grow and can't seem to figure out how to?

Do you have an idea of what you want your business to look like or grow into, but nothing seems to be heading in that direction?

I completely understand your confusion and fears. There's so much information out there on the Internet and so many self-help gurus out there that it either takes time to put all the information together, or you have to pay top dollar to have a guru explain it to you.

My name is Susan Kilmer, and I am the author of this starting-a-business planning guide. Over the course of my business and entrepreneurship background, I have taught hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs how to start a business and business owners how to keep their businesses going. One of the things they have all said at one time or another is, "I wish there was some manual or guide that would walk me through the business planning steps - through what I need to know to start, operate, or grow my business."

I listened, and I did it. I created this concise guide on how you can navigate through the business planning process, with clear explanations of every single section of a business plan.

It's not just any guide; it takes you through several things, including:

• What is a business plan, and why is it important?
• What do I write in it, and how long does it have to be?
• Can I just hire someone to write it for me?