Anxiety and fear keep many prospective entrepreneurs from realizing their dream of owning a business. Though it will take hard work and perseverance, you can overcome your worries and launch a successful company. Here are four tips from Icon Refined to help you get started.

1. Create a Business Plan

Jumping into running an enterprise will do nothing to quell your nerves. Instead, create a sound business plan that outlines how you will run your company in its early days. These outlines aid entrepreneurs in setting clear goals and can help you attain funding if necessary to get your business started. A solid business plan should include:

• Company description
• Mission statement
• Company goals
• Financial analysis
• Marketing plan

2. Connect With Other Business Owners

Finding other entrepreneurs who have been through the launch process and become successful business owners can be extremely helpful to you if you are hoping to start a company of your own. If you have friends or family that own businesses, ask them to share their experiences and if they can provide tips as you embark upon this process.

If you do not have anyone in your circle who you can ask to mentor you, try checking into one of the small business groups in your area. Speak with your local center for entrepreneurs to see whether you can join in on one of their events. If this does not pan out, try hosting your own event or following other companies on social media.

3. Change Your Mindset About Failure

According to one source, about 20% of new businesses fail within the first year of opening. Let that sink in and prepare yourself for the possibility that your first venture may not be the smashing success you hope for. Try to look at the potential for failure as a possible learning experience. Mistakes that you make the first time around can be avoided in the future. In the event that your first company does not thrive, you will be among many entrepreneurs who failed before succeeding.

4. Maintain Other Sources of Income

You will likely feel much less anxious about your new business if you maintain other sources of income. It can be wise to start a company as a side job while keeping your current job to pay the bills. Once your revenue stream for your enterprise grows enough to support your family and pay employees, you can reconsider whether you should continue working or if your time would be better spent promoting your business.

5. Utilize Accounting Software

One of the key items holding you back from launching your new business may be that you do not have a firm grasp of how to manage a company’s finances. The appropriate accounting software that works for your business will make your life easier by allowing you to organize and store receipts to receive as many tax deductions as possible. The software can also provide insight into cash flow to help you run your enterprise more efficiently.

Letting fear dictate your life could lead to serious regrets when you look back on things you wish you had done. If you have always seen yourself as a business owner but have been too afraid to take the leap, tread lightly and follow your dreams while remaining grounded and realistic.