Determine If Your New Idea Is a Real Business

Starting a business is a great thing. It's fun, exciting, and sometimes it can be very rewarding. Just about everyone wishes they didn't have to work for someone. So give it a shot. Well, you might want to take some time before diving right in. You have time, right?

Where does every business begin? It begins with the idea - the "what". Yes, you do need to know what business you are going to start. A lot of inspiring entrepreneurs find their path to starting a business with an innovative idea. You're stuck in your car, sitting in traffic, and that crazy idea pops into your head. Sounds good so far.

Now, the important part, is determining if that "idea" is worth building a business around. Businesses cost money and time - and lots of it. Forbes has a nice slideshow featuring six important questions you need to ask yourself before taking the plunge.

We've all been there, drinking our morning coffee, reading the business section, when--Bam!--the idea comes crashing home: that new gizmo or service that's going to change the world, or at least make us rich. But before you liquidate your 401(k) for startup capital, step back and figure out whether your "great idea" truly translates into a money-making venture. Here are six questions worth asking.