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There are two ways to become your own boss: You can either start your own business or you can buy a piece of someone else's.

The second method is called franchising. There are about 650,000 owner-operated franchise units in the U.S, ranging from fast-food restaurants to education services. Franchise make up 35% of the nation's total retail sales.


 
 
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Retirees In Business
The average American can look forward to almost 20 active years after retirement, and many plan to spend these years pursuing the dream of running their own business.

Advantages: Retirees often have the benefits of superior skills and experience, coupled with a natural conservatism that develops with age.

Results:  Mature entrepreneurship tends to be less risky than starting a business when you're young. Most retirees don't have the time or the energy to recoup any serious mistakes or losses, so the key to success in later life is to work smarter. Avoid these pitfalls to make sure your second career is satisfying and prosperous.

 
 
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Food Cart Business
Starting a sideline business is a great first step toward becoming your own boss on a full-time basis. But beware, sideline business face tax traps as well as opportunities.

Starting Up

You can start your own sidelines business by using your current business knowledge for endeavors such as consulting. It is also a great way to test a new business opportunity on a part-time basis, or to convert your favorite hobby, such as collecting, sailing or farming, into a business activity.