Working at home. With the growth of the internet, this is becoming the dream for more people than ever.

Even people who start with a lot of money aren't necessarily going to be successful working from home. There are unique challenges that must be overcome when you're running your own home business.

How do I get started?

There are many ways to get a home business off the ground. Taking things one step at a time truly allows you to learn-while-you-earn.

One of the best ways to formulate a plan is to model your business after a venture that's already proven to be successful.

By nature, home based businesses often have trouble gaining customers in the beginning, and throwing in the towel can be a very tempting option if you face problems. You will need to be someone who can be self-motivated. Since this is your own business, you probably won't have someone looking over your shoulder encouraging you to put in the effort to make it a success.

Most successful entrepreneurs agree that the first year is the litmus test of a business owner's commitment. If you stick it out, you will come to view this time of learning, excitement (and yeah - frustration and confusion too) as a major turning point in your life.

Learning HOW to market is necessary for any business, in any industry.

Home businesses succeed not just because of their products, but because of how good they are at selling those products. Study the market around you and understand what makes people tick. You will need to be someone who can not only see people's needs, but be able to effectively demonstrate how your product or service fulfills those needs.

You want to put yourself in the buyers place and see what they need. Convince them that you can help them, and you've made money.

Another dimension you might need to think about is whether or not you can compete in the market. In other words, it's hard to start a home based business if the entrepreneur has no connections. Also, you don't want to go head-to-head with the industry leaders at first. Your initial goal is to get your foot in the door and start building customer confidence. In other words, you'll need to be someone who can choose their battles.

Also remember; don't take your defeats and setbacks too hard. Far too many home businesses fail because the owner can not get back up when they fall down. You need to be someone who can see a setback as an opportunity to learn something.

Home based businesses are favored by entrepreneurs because they require the least capital.

If you're someone who can do all the above, working at home might be just perfect for you!!