In this new and totally revised edition of the over one million copy bestseller, Michael Gerber dispels the myths surrounding starting your own business and shows how commonplace assumptions can get in the way of running a business. Next, he walks you through the steps in the life of a business - from entrepreneurial infancy through adolescent growing pains to the mature entrepreneurial perspective, the guiding light of all businesses that succeed - and shows how to apply the lessons of franchising to any business, whether or not it is a franchise. Finally, Gerber draws the vial, often overlooked distinction between working on your business and working in your business. This book will truly enable readers to grow their businesses in a predictable and productive way.