With the rise of social media marketing, the technological advancements with commerce, and the general business sentiment in the U.S. rising, many young people(as well as older people) are finding entrepreneurship as an increasingly appealing life choice. I would say as with most trends, there is both bad and good aspects.

On one hand entrepreneurship is what America is built on. From Ford Motor Co. to Apple Computers, companies that are able to provide what customers want will always succeed. However, there is a new mentality emerging that entrepreneurship is “fun” or that simply by starting a company you are instantly successful.

By very definition only 1% can become the 1%, which is why thousands of businesses fail each year. Starting a business can be exciting, rewarding, and profitable, but it probably won’t be “fun” in the conventional understanding of the word.

When starting a business ask yourself, “why am I starting this business?” This question helps you understand yourself. And then ask, “Is there need for my product or service?” This helps you understand the customer. And lastly ask, “What’s the best (most efficient, effective, and customer-centered) way of bringing my products and services to my market? This question will help you understand your action steps.

After asking those questions you’ll have an idea as to where your mind is at, where the customers’ minds are at, and where your next actions should be. While answering these questions thoroughly might not be easy, it will be highly beneficial to any rising entrepreneur.

Action steps: Ask yourself, “Why am I starting this business?”