Just need to make sure they are treated with the respect they so rightly deserve as businesss owners. --- This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.

this is what i really need. right now, i'm just starting my online business and it's been 3 years but i'm still struggle with my goal. i have tried to focus, be positive think, persistance, hard working but the reality is still far from my dream.

The Small Business Administration partners with the following organizations to provide assistance and counseling to small businesses. Some of these organizations offer mentoring programs, which sounds like something you may be interested in. Small Business Development Centers Free start-up advice, training and counseling services for entrepreneurs and small businesses. SBA District Offices Counseling, training and business development specialists who provide free and low-cost services in your area. SCORE - Service Corps of Retired Executives Association Free mentoring, business counseling, and low-cost workshop Small Manufacturing Businesses - Training and Assistance Programs Free and low-cost services to help small manufacturers start, grow and succeed. Women's Business Centers Educational resource centers designed to assist women start and grow small businesses. Minority Business Development Centers Free business consulting services and financial management advice to minority-owned businesses throughout the U.S. You can learn about more free counseling and training programs on Business.gov's Small Business Assistance and Training page.

Business plans, while not necessary to start of business, definitely help. And staying focused and motivated is important. For me, I read the NYTimes Smal Business Blogs for inspiration and motivation. I also have learned a lot from the Business.Gov community and read it regularly as well.

Networking and Mentoring are great tools that any small business owners should look at. If you possibly can find a sucessful business mentor to work with you this will be a huge asset to you. They know what issues you're facing. They know how to get through them. They know what you need to do to survive and flourish because they've done it themselves. Other countries have business mentor programs, but I think in the US this is aminly achieved through angel investors. One great way to get in contact with other small busness people in your sector is to attend small business events. Even if there is only one or two items on the agenda that appeals to you, go along and mix with your peers - this is often the most valuable part of any event. There's usually refreshments after the event and this is your opportunity to mix. look for other people with businesses in your sector and if you're stuck for conversation, start with asking what they though of the presentations and go from there.