There is evidence to prove that many small businesses (nearly 85%) do not use strategic plans for conducting their business. This causes them to miss out on defining and reaching their goals. Many of them are under the assumption that only large companies should use this though in reality, they would achieve tremendous success and rewards if they adopted any strategic plan.It does not matter if you own a small business, or if you have been handling your own business for a while now, as you will realize that it is not enough to just work hard and tirelessly or display tenacity to succeed. What do you need to succeed is the million dollar question here.In short, you need to start out right:1. Learn to be professional right from the start. Be serious about the business. You should take into account your likes and dislikes, customer service terms, sales collateral and response that you need to deal with. Make sure you use phone lines, including an answering service for your business needs and use a professional web site and cell phone exclusively for the business along with the right stationery and business cards. You are able to make a stand and prove firmly that you are a strong contender, when you use a proper outlay that spells out your worth, highlights your brand image and your standing in the market.2. Initially you need to capitalize on a business idea that will work – this does not have to be something that will make you popular; you however need a constructive, cohesive plan that will get you funders because it is SMART.3. It is important that you love what you are doing. You realize the business belongs to you but it is advisable to have a support system. Sometimes you reach the point where you want to throw in the towel! This is what could have happened to Dyson who might have given up if it were not for the support received from his spouse and children. It is vital to love what you do. It does not matter if you are running a day-care, or starting out with a horse ranch, it is going to take up a lot of your time, money and effort and if you are planning to make it a long-standing venture, you should enjoy what you are doing.4. An old adage, “fail fast” was coined a long time back but still holds true today. You need to quickly learn what doesn’t work as fast as you can and keep at it to grow and succeed. You will be able to grow successfully and expand your business without quaking at the prospect. It is in your best interests to spend on growth, expansion and investing in staff if you want to succeed in business.5. Make sure you account and pay tax from the start.Once you enjoy the support, use the right resources and tools and surge forward with that tough entrepreneurial confidence, there is no stopping you from making it to the top and paving your niche is the small business success sector!