Many people who start businesses from home do not realize the most important component of their success: mindset. It is the vital key that will truly make or break the most ambitious of endeavors.

People see advertisements that say, “Automated system puts cash in your pocket while you sleep” or “Lazy man’s way to internet wealth.” Thousands buy these companies with the inclination that the money will be easy. Could not be farther from the truth.

Although people can actually make money from some of these programs, it takes hard work, dedication, and proper programming of the mind. It’s so easy to make excuses for why you can’t spend a little time on your business every day. It is very easy to stop being motivated and discouraged because you are not rich in a month or two. And it is just as easy to quit smoking due to negative influences from friends and family.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) reports that 50% of all small businesses will fail within their first year and a staggering 95% within their first five. To be successful in the small business world, one must set their mind for success.

1. Think positive

The mind is indeed a powerful machine. Positive thinking every day will condition your subconscious for success. Also, the positive attracts the positive. This is not magic. It is a fundamental universal law. Visualize your success and believe in it and you will certainly achieve it.

2. Hours

Set aside a block of time per day that you use solely for the purpose of moving your business forward. Even if it is only half an hour, it is still time used for a worthwhile purpose. If you can stick to a schedule, you will find that it becomes repetitive and easy to accommodate on a daily basis.

3. Goal setting

This is a very powerful motivational tool used by successful businessmen and athletes to turn vision into reality. Write your goals in as much detail as possible. Don’t just write that you want a new car. Write that you want a black Corvette ZR1 convertible in 3 years. The more precise the instructions, the better the subconscious mind will work. You should also refrain from setting goals that are too high. They shouldn’t be out of reach, but make sure they’re reachable.

Running your own business can be satisfying and rewarding, as well as very frustrating. Using these key tools will put you on the right track to be on the positive side of the statistics.

Jason Melko is the author and entrepreneur of Medley Enterprises, a continuing education and business development company that shows people how to build business success. Get free, no-obligation advice and training at http://www.MedleyMoney.com. Find out if you qualify for training to run your own business at 1-800-719-8268 ex. 35614.