Foundation for a Business:  Figure out your Mission and Core Values.

You will find it extremely helpful before you start a business to think deeply about your mission, which I define as what you wish to accomplish with your business.   In addition, you should identify your core values, the principles and qualities you want to express, and your employees to express in their work.  Draft a clear, concise and forceful statement of your company’s mission and core values.  Share it with your employees so they are guided and inspired.  Refer to your mission and values repeatedly.  Doing so will help you maintain focus,  make tough decisions in a way that keeps your company on course, and give you patience to tackle the challenges that will inevitably come with running your own business.