According to various sources and studies cited in the document, starting a small business has been on the rise in recent years in the United States. To successfully start a business, it is important to know your goals, be aware of the risks which include over 50% of startups failing within the first year, and have a plan to raise necessary funds as 29% of failures are due to running out of cash. Hard work and continuous learning are also essential as most new businesses are self-funded and operated by their owners without employees in the beginning. Perseverance is key to overcoming challenges that will be faced along the entrepreneurial journey.